Heather Knox has been appointed Chief Executive of NHS Lanarkshire.
Heather has been interim Chief Executive of NHS Lanarkshire since June 2020.
Neena Mahal, Chair of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “I am delighted to announce that, following a competitive recruitment process, Heather Knox has been appointed Chief Executive of NHS Lanarkshire.
“Heather brings a strong track record of achievement throughout her various roles in the NHS and has demonstrated excellent leadership as interim Chief Executive during the current pandemic.
“She has a clear vision for improving the health of the people of Lanarkshire and ensuring we remain a high performing heath board. Heather is committed to working with the Board, our communities, staff and partners to take forward our refresh of our healthcare strategy ‘Achieving Excellence’ and our plans for a new University Hospital Monklands.
“Her knowledge, experience and skills will ensure we are well placed to meet the ongoing challenges of Covid-19 and the recovery process and I look forward to continuing to work with her.”
Health Secretary, Jeane Freeman, said: “I want to congratulate Heather Knox on her appointment as Chief Executive of NHS Lanarkshire and express my sincere thanks to her for the leadership she has shown as Interim Chief Executive throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I am sure Heather will continue to work in partnership across the health and care system, providing collaborative and inclusive leadership that will ensure the continued delivery of high quality services to local communities, while ensuring NHS Lanarkshire is fully prepared for future challenges.”
Heather Knox said: “Working as interim Chief Executive of NHS Lanarkshire has been an honour and an incredibly rewarding experience. I am excited to have this opportunity to continue the work I have started in the role.
“We are fortunate to have fantastic staff throughout all parts of NHS Lanarkshire and they continue to amaze me with their dedication, enthusiasm and professionalism.
“We know how difficult recent months have been for our patients and staff. I am committed to listening to you and working with you to ensure NHS Lanarkshire provides the best possible care at this time in a way that is fair and equitable to all.”
Heather joined NHS Lanarkshire in January 2015 having previously worked as NHS Fife’s director of acute services and the director of regional planning for the West of Scotland. She also has extensive experience of working jointly with colleagues across health and social care, including community, primary care, integrated joint boards and local authorities.
She joined the NHS in 1987 as a management trainee and holds a postgraduate degree in Health Administration and Health Research Master of Sciences at the University of Hull.