UHBW CEO announces decision to step down from role in New Year

Bristol Health Partners Board member Professor Eugine Yafele,  Chief Executive, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston (UHBW) NHS Foundation Trust, has today announced his intention to step down from his role in the New Year to take up the role of chief executive of Monash Health in Melbourne, Australia.

Eugine announced his decision today to UHBW staff saying:

“This is not a decision I have taken lightly, however, it is an amazing opportunity and the right decision for my family.

“I have worked to deliver NHS services for over 24 years, both on the frontline and in senior leadership roles, it’s fair to say the NHS draws you in – as does UHBW! It is with a heavy heart that I will be leaving this fantastic institution.

“Ours is an incredible organisation, there is a kindness and compassion that runs through the 15,000 strong Team UHBW that really is very special. The commitment of you all to do the very best you can for our patients does not go unnoticed – I see it for myself every day, and I hear it time and again from our patients.

“It has been an absolute privilege to be your chief executive. I am so proud of all that we have achieved in the last few years as we have worked hard to deal with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, and ensure timely care for everyone who needs us. I will miss working with you all enormously when the time comes to say goodbye.

“Until then, I remain fully committed to leading our organisation, and I look forward to continuing to work with you all over the coming months.”

Commenting on the announcement, Jayne Mee, UHBW Chair added:

“I want to thank Eugine for his fantastic leadership during his time at UHBW. He has consistently put people at the centre of everything we do and has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to inclusion and patient experience.

“We will all be sorry to see Eugine move on, the impact of his leadership has been seen most clearly in the organisation’s response to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and resetting our organisation and direction. The fact that Eugine is consistently recognised as one of the most influential leaders in health acknowledges his significant contribution to health and care and is testament to his leadership qualities.”

Plans to recruit a successor will be shared in due course.