New non-executive director joins hospitals trust (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

New non-executive director joins hospitals trust

8:00am Sunday 13th January 2013 in News By William Tomaney

New director: Stephen Howarth has joined the board of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.

A FINANCIAL expert has joined the board of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust - which manages Kidderminster Hospital - as a non-executive director.

Stephen Howarth, who is from Worcester, took up his post on January 9 and his appointment is for four years. In 2012, he retired after 27 years as director of finance for West Mercia Police.

Mr Howarth said he was looking forward to bringing his skills and experience for the benefit of patients and staff at the trust.

“My previous role at West Mercia, which was independently recognised as being one of the best performing forces in the country, was essentially about protecting people,” he added.

“I am absolutely delighted to be involved at a strategic level with the trust where the focus is also very much on protecting people by providing a safe, efficient patient centred service.

“Everyone knows the first wealth is health and I look forward to helping the trust in my new role.”

Trust chairman Harry Turner welcomed his new non-executive colleague to the board.

“Stephen brings a new set of skills and invaluable experience to our senior management team. As well as his extensive financial experience, his background includes a Chartered Institute of Public Finance and accountancy degree.

According to the trust, non-executive appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selections process, although Mr Howarth has had to declare that he is not a member of any political party.