Hospitals chief in new challenge

Gillian Fairfield - new job

Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust chief executive is leaving for a new role.

Dr Gillian Fairfield will become chief executive at Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Dr Fairfield took over the local trust, which runs the Royal Oldham hospital and three others, in April, 2014. She will be succeeded by the trust’s director of finance, Damien Finn, as interim chief.

Trust chairman John Jesky said: “Gillian’s contribution has been tremendous. She will be missed both professionally and personally. Under her stewardship we have made many improvements and seen innovations that will resonate long after her departure.

Mr Jesky’s term in office also comes to an end this month. Vice-chair Christine Mayer, who has been a member of the trust board since 2011, will step in.

Mr Jesky added: “I’m sad to be leaving the trust after 10 years,” he said. “It has been a privilege.”