NHS Dumfries and Galloway chief executive Jeff Ace will retire next year.
He has notified the Board and the Scottish Government of his intention to step down on March 31 2024.
But conversations will now start to take place with the Scottish Government around the timelines and processes for appointing a new boss.
Mr Ace joined NHS Dumfries and Galloway in 1999 and has held the posts of acute trust finance director, director of performance, chief operating officer and has been CEO since February 2012,
In a statement to staff, he said: “Being chief executive of NHS Dumfries and Galloway has been an enormous privilege and thanks to everyone who’s given support and guidance during my time in post.
“We’ve been through quite a bit in the last few years – including new hospital builds and a global pandemic – and I hope you all enjoy some calmer working times after I step down in the spring.”
NHS Dumfries and Galloway chairman Nick Morris said: “I’d like to thank Jeff for his many years of work and wish him all the best in his retirement. We will now begin a process of recruitment to this important leadership role.”
