Following a comprehensive NHS England recruitment process, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust (GEH) and South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust (SWFT) are pleased to announce that Sue Whelan has been appointed as Joint Chair, effective 1 April 2026.
Sue will succeed Russell Hardy, who will conclude his successful tenure as Chair in March 2026.
Sue brings extensive experience in financial governance and public service leadership. Her appointment will further strengthen collaboration across the two Trusts, who moved to a joint single Executive Board in October 2025, and provide strong leadership to address the financial and operational challenges facing the organisations.
Sue has deep knowledge of the Warwickshire health system, having served as a Non-Executive Director, and subsequently Senior Independent Director, at SWFT from February 2016 to February 2025. During this time, she played a pivotal role in building the Trust’s strong national reputation. She also provided key oversight in the establishment of the Freedom to Speak Up Guardian framework, which was a critical contributor to the Trust achieving an Outstanding Care Quality Commission rating.
Sue has also held senior roles at the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket and the Nursing and Midwifery Council, with her positions leading on cultural improvements through advancing equity and equality. She began her executive career in banking, and her public appointments include serving as a Commissioner at the Independent Police Complaints Commission.
Adam Carson, Acting Chief Executive Officer of GEH and SWFT, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sue to the role of Joint Chair from 1 April 2026. She brings a rare combination of healthcare knowledge, strong financial and governance expertise, and a clear commitment to inclusive and compassionate leadership. Her experience and insight will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen collaboration between our Trusts and respond to the challenges facing the NHS, while remaining firmly focused on delivering the highest quality care for our patients and communities.”
Sue Whelan, incoming Joint Chair of GEH and SWFT, said: “I am honoured to be appointed as Joint Chair of George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust and South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust. I am deeply committed to working in partnership with patients, colleagues and health and social care partners to build on the strong foundations already in place. Together, we will continue to improve access, quality, and equity of care, while embracing innovation and collaboration to meet the evolving needs of our communities.”
