The Chief Executive of Barts Health NHS Trust has announced she will step down, following seven years in the role.
Alwen Williams, who has served the NHS for over 40 years, will retire from her role in July this year.
Commenting on her departure from the role, Alwen said: “I have worked with the most committed, talented, and hard-working colleagues to improve healthcare services in east London for many years. I am very proud of all that we’ve done together at #TeamBarts and no more so than in the last two years of the Covid pandemic.
“Barts Health has an exciting future ahead with the Whipps Cross redevelopment, Barts Life Sciences and the future collaboration with Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (BHRUT) and other partners within the North East London integrated care system.
“I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to lead Barts Health as my last full- time role in the NHS – it has been a huge privilege to be your Chief Executive. I will step down at the end of July, but will ensure that we focus on our key priorities in the months ahead as we continue to deliver our Covid recovery plans and support our teams as best we can.”
Following Alwen’s retirement, Jacqui Smith, Chair in common of Barking, Harvering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (BRUHT), has announced plans to recruit a Group CEO for both Barts Health and BRUHT Trusts.
On the recruitment of a new Group CEO, Jacqui said: “I have discussed the implications of her decision with colleagues on the boards of both trusts. In the light of these changed circumstances, and in line with my appointment as chair in common of BHRUT and Barts Health, the boards of both trusts have now agreed to recruit a Group CEO who will be the accountable officer for both trusts. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing the collaboration further, working with myself and Matthew Trainer, the trust CEO of BHRUT.”
