The search has begun for a new CEO after it was confirmed that Lance McCarthy would be stepping down from the position later this year. 

McCarthy, the CEO at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, has confirmed his departure for Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, Surrey.

McCarthy's exit is expected end of July and the recruitment of a new chief executive is currently underway.

Hattie Llewelyn, chair of The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, said: “My congratulations to Lance on his new role and a huge thank you from all the members of the board and people at PAHT.

“Lance has led the trust for the last seven years and I am proud of what he has achieved; from coming out of CQC quality special measures, to being part of the New Hospital Programme and treating 50,000 more patients every year.  Thank you, Lance for your passion, compassion and commitment to our people and the patients we care for.”

Lance McCarthy, chief executive, added that: “It has been a privilege to be the chief executive at PAHT over the last seven years, and I will forever have so many memories from working here.

“I know that the trust will continue on its improvement journey with the implementation of a state-of-the-art electronic health record this year (2024) along with increased partnership working and integration of local services, and building a fantastic new hospital for local people.”