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Appointment of interim chair at our Trust
Jude Chin has been appointed as interim chair at our Trust.
Jude, who will be taking up the role with immediate effect, is currently a non-executive director on the board at the Trust. He has a wealth of experience at board level in a range of sectors and is a former vice-chair at Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust.
The process of recruiting a permanent chair has already begun, with the nominations committee of the council of governors having held its first meeting to confirm the appointment process.
Jude said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be taking on this role as interim chair at West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust.
“Staff at the Trust work tirelessly, providing fantastic care for patients across west Suffolk through a range of services. The last two years through the pandemic has been very difficult for staff and on top of that the Trust has had to deal with additional issues and pressures.
“I see my primary role as supporting the board and helping the Trust to provide the best possible care for patients.
“I am fully committed to my role as chair and am looking forward to working with colleagues to help navigate this very demanding time for the NHS.”
Craig Black, CEO of West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust said: “I am so pleased to welcome Jude into the role of interim chair at the Trust. I know he will provide a safe pair of hands whilst we recruit to the permanent position.
“With planning for a new healthcare facility, the Trust has some exciting times ahead. However, we are currently facing some significant challenges, not least the continuing Covid-19 pandemic and managing our ageing estate on the Hardwick Lane hospital site.
“Jude comes to this role with significant experience and will provide invaluable insight and leadership.
“As the role of chair changes hands, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our outgoing chair, Sheila Childerhouse, for the huge contribution she has made to the Trust over the last four years and to wish her well for the future.”
Liz Steele, lead governor for the Trust commented: “Governors are really pleased to able to appoint Jude as interim chair. He brings a wealth of experience, including in the health sector, and we are confident he has the knowledge, passion and dedication to help lead the Trust. We look forward to working with Jude and know he will be focused on improving the health services we provide to our local communities.
“The governors have already begun the work to appoint a permanent chair.
“As Jude takes up the reins, on behalf of the governors, we would like to say thank you to Sheila for all she has done for the Trust.”
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