BASILDON hospital boss Claire Panniker is set to take on the role of head of Southend Hospital as well.
A spokesman for Southend University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said that the appointment follows the agreement by the hospital trust boards in mid and south Essex in December to appoint a single chief executive/accountable officer and executive team to lead the three organisations.
The trust’s chairman Alan Tobias made the announcement following a formal selection process and approval of the appointment from its Council of Governors.
He said: “I am pleased we have appointed Clare to lead Southend University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
“Clare’s leadership and guidance will enable us to respond effectively and collaboratively in what are no doubt exciting but challenging times ahead, as we work together to ensure we are able to continue to provide the best possible services for our patients.”
Ms Panniker will be supported in her role at Southend by the appointment of chief nurse Yvonne Blucher as managing director, who will oversee the day to day running of the hospital site.
Ms Panniker said: “It is an absolute privilege to be appointed as the chief executive at Southend University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
“With increasing demand for our services, the provision of compassionate, high quality patient care has never been more important than it is today and collectively we now have the best chance of building a strong foundation for the future.
“I am looking forward to working with staff, our partners and our communities to ensure that we continue to deliver the very best possible care for the people of Southend and surrounding areas.”
