New trust chief keen to build on fine work

CLAIRE MOLLOY

A NEW chief executive with a "proven track record" has been appointed to lead Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust.

Claire Molloy, who held the role of chief executive of Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust for four years, is expected to take over the role in September.

Having joined the NHS as a graduate management trainee in the 90s she brings more than 20 years' leadership experience to Pennine Care, which oversees community and mental health services in Oldham and across Greater Manchester.

Claire said: "I am very much looking forward to working with everyone at Pennine Care and building on the fantastic work that is already taking place across the trust.

"I believe this will be best achieved by working collaboratively with staff, patients and partners within each town.

"I understand there are many challenges facing the trust and wider health and social care system across Greater Manchester, so look forward to overcoming them together."

Staff, stakeholder and patient panels formed part of the interview process for the selection to lead the trust's services, which range from mental health, to dental and health improvement.

Trust chairman John Schofield said it was Claire's "extensive experience" and passion to build a strong workforce which places her in good stead for the role.

He said: "Claire was selected due to her proven track record as a chief executive, particularly at a trust providing mental health and community care across a broad footprint.

"During the process, she demonstrated extensive experience of building strong relationships with partners in order to improve patient care and is passionate about staff engagement to build a strong and motivated workforce.

"These attributes are in line with Pennine Care's strategy and values and I am confident that she, along with the executive team, will provide the trust with strong leadership into the future."