Dalian Beaver, the newly appointed General Manager of Cellular Pathology, embodies the power of resilience, determination, and continuous self-improvement. Her journey from a young immigrant navigating a new education system to a senior leader in the NHS is nothing short of inspiring. With nearly two decades of experience in biomedical science and management, Dalian’s story is a testament to the transformative impact of hard work, ambition, and an unwavering self-belief.
From Jamaica to the UK: A challenging start
Dalian’s journey began in Jamaica, where she grew up with dreams of becoming a doctor. In 1998, she moved to the UK, a transition that came with its own set of challenges. The differences in the education system meant she had to adapt quickly, starting in Year 11 without the foundational knowledge of her peers. Struggling with GCSEs and A-levels, Dalian faced setbacks that could have derailed her ambitions. However, she refused to let these obstacles define her future.
“I always knew I wanted to work in science,” Dalian recalls. “Even though I didn’t do well initially, I was determined to find a path that would allow me to make a difference.”
Finding her passion in biomedical science
Dalian’s turning point came during her foundation year at the University of East London, where she discovered her passion for biomedical science. Excelling in her studies, she realised that this field offered the flexibility and opportunities she was looking for. She specialised in cellular pathology, drawn to its hands-on nature and the critical role it plays in diagnosing disease.
Her dedication paid off when she secured a highly competitive placement at Royal London Hospital during her undergraduate studies. This experience not only solidified her love for the field but also set the stage for her future career.
“I was so enthusiastic about cellular pathology that I completed my IBMS registration portfolio in six months,” she says. “It was a challenging but incredibly rewarding time.”
Climbing the ladder: A strategic approach to career growth
Dalian’s career progression is a masterclass in strategic planning and perseverance. She set a goal to spend three years at each band, ensuring she acquired the necessary skills and experience to advance. Starting as a band 5 biomedical scientist at Royal London Hospital, she worked her way up to senior roles, including a band 6 position at St Thomas’ Hospital.
Her commitment to continuous learning was evident as she pursued an MSc in biomedical science while balancing work and motherhood.
“I was pregnant with my second child and had a two-year-old at home while completing my master’s,” Dalian shares. “It wasn’t easy, but I was determined to finish it.”
Transitioning into leadership
Dalian’s transition into management was a natural progression that reflected her skills and ambition. After just nine months as a senior biomedical scientist, she applied for and secured her first operational management role at King’s College Hospital. This marked the beginning of her leadership journey, where she honed her ability to inspire and motivate teams.
Her leadership philosophy is rooted in empathy, communication, and a solutions-focused mindset.
“You can’t lead effectively if you don’t bring people along with you,” she explains. “It’s about understanding their challenges, showing empathy, and working together to find solutions.”
Overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities
Dalian’s career hasn’t been without its challenges. She faced multiple rejections before landing her first senior role and encountered setbacks that tested her resilience. However, she views these experiences as opportunities for growth. “Every ‘no’ I received was a stepping stone to a better ‘yes,’” she says. “It’s important to keep going, even when things get tough.”
Her ability to adapt and thrive in challenging environments is evident in her approach to leadership. During her tenure at Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, she managed multiple sites and navigated the complexities of organisational changes with grace and determination.
A commitment to continuous improvement
Dalian’s pursuit of excellence didn’t stop at her MSc. Recognising the importance of management expertise, she completed an MBA during the Covid-19 pandemic and earned a chartered manager status with distinction. “I wanted to be a credible leader,” she says. “Education and experience go hand in hand, and I wanted to ensure I had both.”
A new chapter at SWLP
In her current role as General Manager in Cellular Pathology at, Dalian is focused on driving positive change and improving service delivery. She acknowledges the challenges the department faces but remains optimistic about the future. “It’s a big role, but I’m excited about the opportunity to make a difference,” she says. “With a great team and a solutions-focused approach, I believe we can achieve great things.”
Inspiring the next generation
Dalian’s story is not just about professional success; it’s also about inspiring others to believe in themselves. She uses her journey to motivate her children, particularly her daughter who struggles academically, showing them that perseverance and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
“I want people to know that it’s okay to fail,” she says. “What matters is how you pick yourself up and keep going. Success is possible if you’re willing to put in the work.”