Medical director Dr Ian Smith has been appointed as interim deputy chief executive at Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
The post was left vacant when chief finance and commercial officer Tim Glenn left to join East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust on secondment.
Dr Smith will fulfil the deputy CEO role until Tim returns to Royal Papworth Hospital in November 2024.
“Congratulations to Ian who I am delighted to have as my deputy for the next six months, following a highly-competitive interview process,” said chief executive Eilish Midlane.
The deputy chief executive has several roles, including deputising for the chief executive.
Eilish and Ian will work in collaboration, along with the executive team and Board of Directors, in developing and delivering the clinical, strategical and operational direction of the Trust; growing partnerships within healthcare, academia, industry and the local community; and continually improving patient and staff experience.
“Ian already sits on the Board of Directors and I have no doubt he will be fantastic in this additional role, having been a leader for many years as both a clinician and a researcher,” added Eilish.
“His expertise and knowledge will help to make Royal Papworth Hospital even safer for our patients and better for our staff, who are working so hard to treat as many people as possible, often in new and innovative ways.”
Dr Smith has worked at Royal Papworth Hospital since 1992. Alongside his role as medical director he is also a consultant chest physician working in the Respiratory Support and Sleep Centre (RSSC). Before becoming medical director in 2022 he was director of research and development at the hospital.
“Whether it’s supporting excellent clinical care, world-class research and innovation, or finding more ways to recognise and reward our outstanding staff, I am delighted to be able to contribute in another way to the running of this hospital,” said Dr Smith.
“Thank you to Eilish and the Board of Directors for this exciting opportunity.”