St George’s University Hospitals interim group chief executive James Blythe is to step down after being appointed chief executive of the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust.
New St George’s University Hospitals (gesh) chief executive Dr Mat Shaw will start work in April, having previously served as chief executive of Great Ormond Street (GOSH).
St George’s University Hospitals Group Chair Sir Mark Lowcock said: “On behalf everyone at gesh, I want to thank James stepping in to the Group CEO role over the last few months. In that time, James has helped us get onto a stronger financial footing, with the organisation set to hit its financial target for this year and with an ambitious plan for groupwide transformation over the next three years.
“He has led us through one of the busiest winters on record, secured investment into our services, and has championed equality to improve pay and conditions for some of our lowest paid workers.
“James was one of the original architects of our Group model, developing our shared ambition for greater collaboration to give patients the same high standards of care across our services and saving millions of pounds by reducing duplication.
“In his time at Epsom and St Helier Hospitals we have invested in frontline facilities and services, successfully implemented an Electronic Patient Record, and developed new services such as the Sutton Reablement Unit.
“James is leaving gesh on firmer foundations as an organisation that is actively listening to improve and innovate – including expanding our use of robotic surgery and AI to shorten waits and release clinical time to care.”
Outgoing interim group chief executive James Blythe commented: “I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved at gesh and it’s been a privilege to work with so many inspiring colleagues.
“Over the last four years, my focus has always been supporting our people to deliver safe and effective care, and to ensure the organisation continues to innovate and improve. I’m looking forward to working with another fantastic team at the Royal Berkshire.”
