Celebrating International Women’s Day – Saduf Ali-Drakesmith

To mark International Women’s Day on March 8, RAD Magazine asked just a few of the women who are having an impact in the medical imaging industry to give an insight into their working lives and what led them to a career in the imaging sector.

When I look back on my career, I’m struck by just how much has changed in radiology and health technology, and how much I’ve grown alongside it. With over 24 years of experience spanning radiology, imaging IT and now AI, I’ve had the privilege of being part of a field that is constantly evolving, and my journey has been about more than just technology and strategy; it has been about connecting people, driving innovation and making a meaningful impact.

I started my career as a radiographer, working hands-on with patients in hospitals. Those early days were crazy, working in one of the busiest hospitals in the country, and my passion for trauma led, well pushed, me into forensic radiography (including being involved with the early set up of the Association of Forensic Radiography). My love for plain film and A&E sparked my interest in reporting radiography and then a later – not so gentle – nudge landed me in the NPfIT [NHS National Programme for IT] and imaging IT world.

Like I said, crazy. But it also made me realise I wanted to do more – to lead, innovate and help shape the future of radiology. Becoming one of the UK’s first consultant radiographers was a proud moment for me. It wasn’t just a career milestone; it was a chance to redefine what was possible for radiographers and demonstrate how much we can contribute to improving patient outcomes.

It was my involvement in the NPfIT that lit a fuse in me around wanting to learn more about technology and its potential to transform healthcare that eventually led me to move into an imaging IT role. It was a natural evolution almost because I really felt that I could bridge the clinical and technological worlds. I understood the challenges healthcare professionals faced and I was excited to help solve them with innovative solutions. Over time, I shifted from clinical practice to strategic roles in health technology, and it has been an incredible journey.

In 2016, I left the NHS to embark upon my first commercial role as a visualisation specialist, working with VNAs and viewers, despite being terrified at the prospect of leaving the NHS. I was excited to be able to shape and influence the tools of my radiography trade from the other side and quickly rose to management positions. Initially managing local teams, then wider international teams, I eventually took on a global director role for a billion dollar business and, yes, there were many successes but for me, it wasn’t just about hitting numbers commercially, it was about building relationships, solving problems and driving long-term success for my clients.

These days, you’ll find me diving into the world of AI as a director of sales at an AI scale-up. I truly believe that AI has the potential to revolutionise radiology and healthcare as a whole. Whether it is developing commercial models, forming strategic partnerships or helping clients navigate complex landscapes, I am still passionate about using technology to make healthcare smarter, faster and more effective.

But my career has never been just about work. Mentorship has always been close to my heart. I have been fortunate to have had incredible mentors throughout my journey, and I feel it is my responsibility to pay that forward. Mentorship, for me, is about helping others see their potential, guiding them through challenges and cheering them on as they grow. It is one of the most fulfilling parts of what I do.

I’m also deeply committed to advocating for women in leadership and equality in the workplace. I know how hard it can be to break through barriers, especially in male-dominated industries like health technology. That is why I’ve made it a priority to support initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. My work with the Women’s Leader Forum and Women in Tech Forum showcases this. I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender or background, has an equal opportunity to lead and succeed.

Looking back, I feel incredibly fortunate to have built a career that combines my love for radiology with technology and my commitment to people. From my early days as a radiographer to my current role in AI, my focus has always been on making a difference, whether that’s by improving patient care, empowering a colleague or advocating for change.

As I look to the future, my goal is simple: to keep pushing boundaries, support the next generation of leaders and help create a healthcare industry that is innovative, inclusive and impactful. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about what you achieve, it’s about the legacy you leave behind. And for me, that legacy is about empowering others, championing equality and making healthcare better for everyone.

Saduf Ali-Drakesmith, head of sales, Smart Reporting Limited.

Read this report on page 14 of the February 2025 issue of RAD Magazine.

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