Chief executive takes on new challenge

8th October, 2001

The West Suffolk Hospitals NHS Trust is to look for a new chief executive following the decision of Johanna Finn to leave the organisation.

Jo has decided to pursue her interests in strategy and development after eight successful years at the trust. The trust was declared as one of the top performers in the country, gaining a three star rating last month.

Her first task will be to work with the universities of Cambridge and East Anglia and the health service, developing clinical placements for medical students with the NHS.

“There is never a right time to leave a role such as Chief Executive,” said Jo, “but I feel that now is the right time for me to take on new challenges.”

“The launch of the Cambridge Graduate Course in Medicine last week is one of the highlights of my career. This has forged a unique link with Bury St Edmunds and the University of Cambridge. It comes at the same time as our three star rating, and means that my successor will be well placed to take the trust on to even bigger and better things.”

“The opportunity to develop clinical education for doctors at a time when the NHS is in such need of highly qualified and motivated staff was too good to miss. It gives me the chance to branch out and work for other organisations facing change.”

During her time at the trust, which runs hospitals in Bury St Edmunds and Sudbury, Jo has seen unprecedented demand for services and changes brought about by developments in health care.

Veronica Worrall, trust chairman said: “It has been a privilege to work with Jo who has built a talented and dedicated team. Thanks to her leadership and the hard work of everyone throughout the Trust we have been able to continually develop the service for patients and facilities for our staff. This has been recognised nationally by the award of three stars to the trust as one of the best performing in the country.”

“I wish her every success, and am glad that she will continue to play a part in our ongoing success by improving the supply of medical staff for the future.”

Jo Finn officially leaves her post on 19 October. Amanda Skull, director of operations, will take on the role of Acting Chief Executive until the post is filled.