Career anchors of Finnish chief physicians’ career pathways to leadership

Purpose Physician leaders’ impact on healthcare leadership is well documented, yet factors influencing their progression into leadership roles remain less explored. This study investigates the career paths of Finnish chief physicians, focusing on the career anchors influencing their transitions into leadership roles. Methods A twofold approach drew on interviews with 15 Finnish chief physicians. The author used deductive content analysis, guided by Schein’s Career Anchor theory, to analyse responses according to the eight career anchors: general managerial competence, technical/functional competence, entrepreneurial creativity, autonomy/independence, security/stability, service/dedication, pure challenge and lifestyle. Subsequently, the author performed a quantification analysis of the results. Results General managerial competence (14/15) and technical/functional competence (9/15) emerged as the most frequently identified career anchors, reflecting the interplay of leadership aspirations and clinical expertise. Other anchors, including security and stability, pure challenge, service and dedication, autonomy and independence, and lifestyle, were less prominent but still evident, highlighting the multifaceted nature of career decision-making and reflecting participants’ commitment to addressing complex problems and contributing to organisational and societal goals. Lifestyle considerations emphasised the importance of balancing professional aspirations with personal and familial responsibilities. Entrepreneurial creativity did not clearly emerge, though minor signs were detectable, indicating that founding new enterprises is not central for physician leaders in public hospital contexts. Participants typically advanced incrementally, first developing medical expertise in their specialties and then advancing into leadership roles, with mentorship and formal leadership training facilitating their transition. Conclusion Career pathways to chief physician positions are shaped by an interplay of personal traits, professional preparation, mentorship and situational opportunities. Leadership aspirations and clinical expertise constitute the primary career anchors, while other factors provide additional, though less dominant, influence. These findings emphasise the value of structured leadership education, mentorship and tailored career development strategies to support physicians in successfully transitioning into leadership roles within healthcare organisations.