We are pleased to announce that James Blythe has been appointed as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of for St George’s, Epsom and St Helier University Hospital and Health Group.

This appointment follows the departure of Jacqueline Totterdell, who is leaving the role to become Chief Executive Officer of NHS Wales at the end of this month.

James has led Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals since February 2022 and by stepping into this role will bring experienced leadership, a keen understanding of our staff, patients and communities and will ensure continuity over the coming months.

Sir Mark Lowcock, Chair of St George’s, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals and Health group:

“I am delighted to have such a strong interim CEO in James. It is a challenging time for the NHS but I am confident that– with the rest of the executive team – James will continue to move us forward over the next six months.”

James Blythe, Managing Director of Epsom and St Helier Hospitals, said: 

“I am delighted and honoured to take on the role of Interim Chief Executive at gesh, to continue the work Jacqueline has successfully delivered over the last four years at ESTH, and eight years at SGUH.

“We face a challenging and exciting few months. We have to deliver on our plans for this year, and make sure we are the safe, effective, and efficient provider of acute and community services that local people deserve. But we must also go further, modernise the care we provide, and work closely with partners to refresh our own strategy so that it delivers the ambitions of the Government’s 10-year plan.”