A SENIOR figure from NHS Dumfries and Galloway has been appointed as its new chief executive – and will be the first woman in the role.
Julie White currently serves as chief operating officer, and will take on the top job in March, upon the retirement of Jeff Ace.
Welcoming her appointment, NHS chairman Nick Morris said: “This is an excellent appointment, as Julie comes to this role possessing knowledge and experience from across a vast range of NHS operations, and with a firm grasp on the immediate and long-term challenges.
“All of these qualities were very much in evidence throughout the independently-led appointment process, along with first class leadership skills.
“This ability and knowledge will be called upon very quickly in order to address the significant challenges currently faced by NHS Dumfries and Galloway in areas such as its finances and the continuing work to fill vacant posts.
“However, I have no doubt about Julie’s abilities to lead NHS Dumfries and Galloway through these challenges, and commend the very high quality of this appointment.”
Mrs White began her career in 1996 through the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme at NHS Lanarkshire, before moving to NHS Dumfries and Galloway in 1998. She has held a variety of roles locally, including commissioning manager and general manager posts with responsibilities for areas including community and diagnostics.
In addition to serving as chief operating officer of NHS Dumfries and Galloway, Mrs White is also the chief officer for the Integration Joint Board (IJB) and the Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP).
Meanwhile, thanks have been expressed to Mr Ace for his 12 year tenure and 38 years’ total service to the NHS.
Mr Morris added: “His leadership has exemplified all the very best qualities of the NHS as an organisation, and I wish him all the best in his retirement.”
