NHS England’s (NHSE) national director of community health services, personalised care, and palliative and end of life care, James Sanderson, is set to join the charity, Sue Ryder, as Chief Executive.
James will officially commence his role in August, when we will focus on delivering the charity’s new long-term vision and strategy.
James said: “Every single one of us will one day have to face the end of our lives and most probably bereavement, and it is this universal certainty that drives the organisation in delivering the best possible outcomes for people.
“I am looking forward to working with staff, volunteers and everyone involved with Sue Ryder to grow the organisation and its impact, find innovative ways to continue to deliver the vision, and above all build a society where everyone who is dying or grieving can access the support they need.”
James will replace long-term chief executive, Heidi Travis, who made the decision to “semi-retire” last November after 14 years at Sue Ryder – 11 of which were as chief executive.
Heidi’s stewardship leaves Sue Ryder in a “strong position”, according to chair of trustees, Rima Makarem. Heidi has helped the charity transform into a leading bereavement support provider, as well as expand its palliative and end of life care offering.
Rima added: “I am very excited to welcome James to Sue Ryder, and he brings a wealth of experience from across the NHS and the not-for-profit sector, including in palliative and end-of-life care.
“His experience means he will be held in high regard by our key audiences, including MPs and policy makers. His personal values align well with Sue Ryder's, and we are looking forward to working with him on delivering our vision and strategy.”
National Health Executive’s dedicated workforce online conference is taking place today (25 April), where leaders from academia, the private sector, and NHS will come together to discuss recruitment, retention and training. The full online conference will be available on demand after the event.
Image credits: iStock & Sue Ryder
