Managers in the healthcare system are in a strong position to look beyond individual prescriptions and to recognize the many ways in which different healthcare system building blocks can contribute to responsible use of antimicrobials. At the institution level this can be achieved by implementing antimicrobial stewardship programmes, ensuring they are adequately resourced, and driving buy-in across clinical leadership. At regional and national levels this includes facilitating the sharing of experiences and resources between institutions, and developing the standards and regulations needed to support responsible antimicrobial use.