A career in nursing demands resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. For Jan Arriola, these qualities have been the foundation of his journey from the Philippines to the United Kingdom, where he now serves as a Matron for Haematology and Oncology in London. Born in Roxas City, Capiz, Jan grew up in a traditional Filipino-Chinese household where discipline and responsibility were instilled in him from an early age. Though his upbringing was strict, he credits it for shaping his perseverance, leadership skills, and the ability to thrive in high-pressure medical environments.
With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Filamer Christian University, Jan set his sights on making a meaningful impact in healthcare. His path led him to specialize in oncology and haematology, fields that became deeply personal after witnessing a loved one battle cancer. Now, as a leader in one of the UK’s most prestigious hospitals, he not only ensures clinical excellence but also mentors aspiring nurses—encouraging them to never lose sight of their motivation for entering the profession.
Reflecting on his passion for oncology and haematology, Jan recalls a pivotal family experience:
“When I was younger, my aunt fell ill to cancer… I told myself one day I am going to specialise in healthcare, particularly in this field.”
That childhood moment, marked by unanswered questions and limited resources, galvanized him to focus on oncology care. In 2020, Jan secured his first Ward Manager or Specialist Charge Nurse role at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea, London—a renowned tertiary hospital that allowed him to immerse himself in high-level cancer care.
Building on this experience, he later served as an Oncology Deputy Matron at Bupa Cromwell Hospital and, in 2023, returned to the NHS as Haematology and Oncology Matron at St. George’s Hospital, one of the largest teaching hospitals in the UK.
Leadership in Healthcare
In his Matron role, Jan balances diverse responsibilities: overseeing nursing staff, ensuring clinical excellence, and driving improvements in patient outcomes. He facilitates workforce management, helps team members navigate clinical challenges, and works tirelessly on governance issues. He also focuses on learning from incidents, maintaining an environment of continuous quality improvement.
According to Jan, providing excellent care and supporting staff through their struggles is profoundly rewarding. Whether he’s ensuring a nurse has the resources they need or helping a family cope with a critical cancer diagnosis, every action he takes aligns with his commitment to compassionate leadership.
Filipino Heritage and Leadership
Jan’s Filipino heritage underpins both his leadership philosophy and approach to patient care.
“I think I was born to lead,” he says, referencing years of involvement in student leadership roles. Encouraged by his family’s emphasis on discipline and hard work, Jan discovered he had a natural talent for guiding others. While he faced struggles—like overcoming language barriers and cultural differences—his upbringing in the Philippines reinforced values of empathy and resilience. These qualities, coupled with a drive to improve lives, helped him flourish in the UK’s fast-paced healthcare environment.
However, leadership at a relatively young age introduced its own challenges. He became a manager at the age of 27, prompting some colleagues to question his credibility because of his age and ethnic background. Determined to succeed, Jan shares:
“I started a comprehensive MSc apprenticeship while juggling a full-time job.”
The simultaneous pursuit of his MSc in Leadership and Management, Senior Leadership Apprenticeship at Ashridge Executive Education, and completion of the Florence Nightingale Foundation Leadership scholarship illustrate his unyielding commitment to professional growth. Over time, his dedication, work ethic, and results have demonstrated that competent leadership transcends any age or ethnic bias.
Advice to Fellow Filipino Nurses
Jan’s daily encounters often involve tough clinical decisions, emotional patient cases, and guiding teams through policy changes—all of which demand a high level of confidence and practical knowledge. Yet his motivation remains unwavering:
“Never lose sight of your motivation for wanting to become a nurse. Your modest upbringing will motivate you to achieve professional success.”
He advises Filipino nurses aspiring to take specialized roles abroad to believe in themselves, remain resilient, and be willing to step out of their comfort zones. By reminding nurses that their backgrounds can be a source of strength, Jan hopes to foster a sense of purpose and ambition in the next generation of overseas Filipino workers.
A Balanced Life and Advocacy
In addition to his professional pursuits, Jan finds balance through physical activities such as hiking and cycling. As a certified Mental Health First Aider, he also prioritizes emotional well-being—both for himself and those under his care.
As a member of the Philippine Nurses’ Association UK Core Committee and a volunteer for Macmillan Cancer Charity, he advocates for cancer patient support, fundraising initiatives, and the importance of inclusion and diversity in the healthcare sector. His vision is clear: a healthcare environment where every nurse feels empowered, every patient receives unwavering compassion, and every colleague works together in a spirit of unity and equality.
A Story of Dedication and Perseverance
Jan’s story is ultimately about rising above challenges, honing leadership skills, and giving back to one’s community—both local and global. From a humble upbringing in Roxas City to becoming a London-based Matron recognized for clinical innovation and compassionate patient care, he exemplifies how dedication and perseverance can transform childhood aspirations into a meaningful career.
