It is increasingly recognised that all consultants have to undertake management responsibilities at several levels. Consultants are an expensive resource and it is therefore fundamental that they manage themselves and their time effectively. Secondly, consultants need to manage their resources, both the clinical team and the facilities available to it. Thirdly, the consultant has a strategic role in developing the service to meet the changing needs of the population served. Finally, some consultants may choose to undertake executive management roles such as clinical director or unit general manager. In these roles a broader view of overall service provision is necessary.