A new chief executive has been appointed to lead a Cumbrian hospitals trust.
University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Furness General Hospital in Barrow, Kendal’s Westmorland General Hospital and the Lancaster Infirmary, announced that Steve Williamson will join it,
He will begin the role after he completes his notice period at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, where he has been chief executive for four years.
Andrew Stephenson CBE, chair of University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This appointment follows a rigorous and highly competitive recruitment process, which attracted an exceptional field of candidates.
“We are confident that Steve brings the experience, vision, and leadership qualities needed to guide our organisation through the next stage of its development.
“Steve has extensive executive experience in leading hospital and health services, both within the NHS and internationally.
“His career includes senior roles in Portsmouth, Southampton, South Tyneside, and Australia. Prior to his current role, Steve was chief executive of Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service, where he was responsible for 12 hospitals and community health services across a region spanning 110,000 km².
“During his five-year tenure, he spearheaded the creation of an innovative regional medical school education programme and launched the 10,000 Lives initiative to tackle health inequalities.
“Steve is passionate about delivering high-quality regional and rural healthcare close to home and believes strongly in working collaboratively to achieve outstanding outcomes for patients and communities.
“His NHS leadership experience includes serving as chief operating officer and chief executive at South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust, as well as senior roles at University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, where he oversaw major specialist services including cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, and trauma care.
“We look forward to welcoming Steve to the trust and working together to continue improving services for the communities we serve.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Scott McLean for the exceptional work he has done, and continues to do, as interim chief executive. His commitment and efforts are greatly appreciated and have made a real difference.”
Mr Williamson said: “I am eager to begin this important work.
“Delivering healthcare across the Morecambe Bay area brings significant challenges, but it also offers incredible opportunities.
“I have already witnessed the creativity and commitment of teams there, and I look forward to working alongside them to build on these innovative approaches and make a real difference for our communities.”
Last month, the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust was reported to be considering £493m-worth of cost-cutting measures, including consulting on the future of hundreds of jobs.
