Sir Peter Dixon, former Chairman of University College London Hospitals (UCLH) from 2001 until last year, has been appointed as a temporary Chairman of Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
The appointment of the Trust Chairman (and its Non-Executive Directors) is the responsibility of the Board of Governors. They have asked Sir Peter to fulfil the role on an interim basis, while the search for a substantive appointment is made.
Lead Governor, Ian Clifton, explained: “With Michael Large departing this month at the end of his term of office, we wanted to be sure that the person taking over was able to hit the ground running. Sir Peter’s credentials are impeccable, with a background in industry and banking, and many years experience in the NHS and other public bodies.
He has chaired one of the country’s most prestigious Trusts for the past decade and has an indepth understanding of regulatory and political processes. Additionally, having previously chaired an Essex Foundation Trust, he has the advantage of knowing and working with many of our local and regional stakeholders.
“The governors are confident that he is the person to take us forward after what has been a difficult period in the Trust’s history. His appointment will be for a period of six to 12 months, depending on how long it takes us to identify a substantive Chairman.”
Commenting on his appointment, Sir Peter said: “I am delighted to be working with everyone at Basildon University Hospital and Orsett Hospital to ensure that we deliver the best possible care for our patients and play a full role in securing a healthy future for our community. Every organisation in the NHS faces
challenging times and there are no easy answers. I shall be listening to people and learning as rapidly as I can and will do my best to help the organisation
deliver to its full potential. I am committed to clear accountability and open communications and hope that people will get to know me quickly, so that we can
work together and make the Trust even more successful in the future.”
