Two of our Foundation Trusts have welcomed new Chief Executives this month

Steve Russell - County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust

Steve Russell has formally taken up the role of Chief Executive of the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT).

Steve (pictured right) joins CDDFT following a career in NHS leadership, most recently serving in national roles within NHS England. His appointment was approved by the Trust Board earlier this year, and he has now formally begun in post.

Outgoing Chief Executive, Sue Jacques, had previously confirmed her intention to retire after more than a decade leading the Trust. She will support a managed handover with Steve over the coming weeks to ensure continuity and stability.

Steve brings a wealth of experience and a clear commitment to patients, staff and communities across County Durham and Darlington.

Steve says: “I am delighted to join CDDFT. I have already had the pleasure of meeting colleagues and seeing first-hand the commitment and passion that runs through the organisation.

"Over the coming weeks, I will be spending time across our sites and communities to meet staff and patients to listen and learn. I am looking forward to working together as we continue to strengthen our culture and the care we provide for our patients and communities.”

We would like to thank Sue for her leadership and dedication during her time as Chief Executive and wish her well for the future. 

Alison Smith - Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust

Alison Smith has joined Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV)as their new Chief Executive from Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, where she has been deputy Chief Executive since 2022.

Prior to this Alison (pictured right) was managing director at the Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group  working within the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care System. She has also worked across acute, community and specialist services, and has held several board roles.

Alison says: “It’s a great privilege to be leading our Trust at such a crucial time across the healthcare sector, and I’m hugely excited about working with our patients, our people and our partners."There is no secret the NHS faces huge challenges right now, and my focus will be on tackling the issues that make the biggest difference to those that need our support."

Interim TEWV Chair, Bev Reilly said: “I’m delighted to welcome Alison as Chief Executive, and we are excited she has joined us at such an important time as we move forward on our continued journey to change and improvement”.

“Alison brings a significant wealth of experience and she both appreciates the immense work we have undertaken as an organisation so far, and is committed to helping us improve further. Alison’s values driven leadership will be a critical part in ensuring we meet the requirements and responsibilities for TEWV outlined in The 10 Year Plan for Health.”