“I have been asked by Government if I would lead the NHS through its transition from the current crisis to getting back on its feet, as transition CEO of NHS England, on a secondment basis with immediate effect.
“You will know that my heart has always been in the North East, and I am enjoying working with you all here in Newcastle. So this has given me quite a lot of heartache and I hope that you understand that I feel that I really cannot reject such a request. I also feel a deep sense of duty to help however I can, to get the NHS nationally back on a more stable footing. This has the support of Sir Paul, our Chair, and our Board.
“My task is to start the transition process for the NHS, get a plan together and give the NHS the best chance of delivering what we need to for the population, as soon as possible. It is hard to tell how long this will take but the intention is that a substantive appointment will be made when that is possible, and I can hand over to the successful candidate then. We will keep you posted on this as things progress.
“While I am away, the Board has agreed that Rob Harrison, deputy chief executive will act as chief executive.
“I would like to add that working in Newcastle over the last 14 months has been an absolute privilege. I have been incredibly proud to be part of this team, full of talented, passionate and dedicated people. We have achieved massive improvements in a short time which you have all been a part of. I am also incredibly grateful for your very warm welcome to me, and your support since I arrived here. I have full confidence in Rob and the rest of the executive and operational leadership teams to build upon the progress we have made.
“I will keep a particular interest in your continued progress and success through a different lens for the next period, and I look forward to returning to the Newcastle Hospitals before too long.”
Sir Jim Mackey
