Samantha Tross

Consultant

London, UK

Gender / Preferred pronoun

Female (She/ Her)

Ethnicity

Black Caribbean

Particular qualities / experiences relevant for mentorship

Female, Ethnic minority, Black, Caribbean, Exam failure

Senior Consultant, Strategic Leadership, Life coaching skills, Setting up Private Practice, Conflict Resolution

Grades willing to mentor

All grades

Profile statement

I am a Consultant specialising in Hip and Knee surgery, who has been in post since 2005. I am currently the Department Lead at Ealing Hospital. When appointed I became the first female of Afro-Caribbean origin to become a Consultant in the UK. I scored another first in 2018, becoming the first woman in Europe to perform Mako robotic hip surgery. Management posts held include Director of Core Surgical Training, Faculty Group Tutor and Lead for Fractured Neck of Femur Pathway. Previous Associate Editor of Journal of Medical Case Reports and am current external Examiner for University of the West Indies (Trinidad & Tobago) Medical finals examinations.

I have had an interesting career, which has not been without its challenges. One challenge was passing the FRCS Orth exam due to a lack of self confidence. This came about from experiences of sexism and racism. Fortunately, my self belief developed during my childhood as well as supportive mentors helped me counter that. I am able to offer advice to anyone experiencing similar difficulties. Due to my experiences, I am passionate about increasing diversity in Orthopaedics and developing leaders who are inclusive, forward thinking and with an empowerment management style.

Outside of work I am currently undertaking a Masters in Strategic Leadership and have recently become a Trustee of a charity. I enjoy listening to music, dancing, travel and fine dining. (I’m well known to have Luther Vandross crooning in the background as I operate.)

Happy to mentor by phone, Zoom or in person.