New chief 'privileged' to join Plymouth NHS Trust

Neil Macdonald is in charge of an operation with about 11,000 staff

University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust has appointed Neil Macdonald as its new chief executive.

Mr Macdonald, who will begin his role on 6 October, joins from Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, where he has served as chief executive since 2018.

The Plymouth NHS Trust is one of the largest employers in the region, with about 11,000 staff and an annual budget of about £1bn, serving people across Devon and Cornwall, with Derriford Hospital at its heart.

"It's a privilege to lead University Hospitals Plymouth at such an important time," he said.

Track record 'invaluable'

Mr Macdonald, who has held senior positions at the Healthcare Commission, Imperial College Healthcare, and Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trusts, said he had been "struck by the warmth of everyone I've met and look forward to serving our staff and communities, and making Devon my home".

Trust Chairman James Brent cited Mr Macdonald's strong leadership and experience in driving cultural and operational improvements.

"Neil's track record will be invaluable as we continue our journey of performance and cultural transformation," he said.

Mr Brent also thanked interim chief executive Mark Hackett for his leadership over the past year, during which the trust achieved significant improvements in emergency care, planned services, theatre utilisation, and research.