ABSTRACT
The chapter describes key principles for leading NCD prevention and control programmes, focusing on the ‘how to do’. This chapter explores challenges in establishing and sustaining complex multisectoral and multistakeholder NCD initiatives as well as actions required from leaders to design and implement policies, strategies and programmes successfully. Challenges include inertia for change and a range of political, sociocultural, resource-related (human and financial), commercial and professional interests. Leaders need to focus on evidence, harnessing resources, meeting specific, quantified and timely outcomes, prioritizing a small number of key targets, working with communities and health services and carefully monitoring and evaluating progress. Flexibility is key when it comes to identifying ‘win-win’ solutions and promoting a balance of ‘carrots and sticks’. The chapter concludes by describing ways to build capacity for public health leadership.
