In their evidence and practice article on page 19, Zoe Horseman and colleagues from around the UK demonstrate that one of the most important leadership roles in nursing is one we perhaps know least about: that of executive nurse director.

What do they do and how do they practice? Without directly managing personnel, finances or resources, how do they ensure health and social care services are effective, safe and caring environments?

The article suggests that these roles require nurses who are credible, visible and visionary, with the ability to provide support and direction, to succeed.

This is especially the case in complex and uncertain times such as those we are living through today.

However, as the authors demonstrate, there is much about these roles we do not appreciate or even understand.

So how should we prepare, aid, and stand with our colleagues who fill these challenging positions?

As the article makes clear, executive nurse directors are becoming increasingly accountable for health and social care services, yet there is often a lack of understanding about their role, and encouragement of those who fill it, from other senior team members.

Perhaps we can help them most by offering them our personal and professional support, and by being credible, visible and visionary in our own practice.