NHS Lothian chief executive to step down from role

The chief executive of NHS Lothian has announced he is to retire after eight years running the health board.

Tim Davison, who has worked in the NHS for 37 years, said it was a “huge privilege” to serve in the “pretty demanding and often unforgiving role”.

Last year, Mr Davison revealed he had considered his position over the delayed opening of the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People in Edinburgh because of unsuitable ventilation, before deciding to remain in the post.

On Tuesday afternoon, the NHS chief announced he will stand down in August once a successor has been appointed.

“It has been a huge privilege to have played my part in the leadership of one of Scotland’s best-loved public services and to complete my career with eight years at the helm of the NHS board serving Scotland’s capital city and the surrounding Lothians,” Mr Davison said.

“I am looking forward now to having time to pursue my many outside interests and to handing the baton of responsibility over to my successor to take NHS Lothian forward into the new decade.

“I would like to thank my board, my leadership team and the wider staff body in NHS Lothian for their unfailing support in what many recognise is a pretty demanding and often unforgiving role.

“I wish them all future success and happiness.”

Responding to news of his resignation, health secretary Jeane Freeman issued a statement wishing Mr Davison well in the future – but did not thank him for his work at NHS Lothian.

Ms Freeman said: “Tim Davison’s career within the NHS has spanned the last 37 years and I’d like wish him the best for his retirement.

“Before Tim leaves steps will be taken to recruit his successor.

“This will enable us to put the necessary arrangements in place to ensure continuity of service and the best possible health and social care for the people of Lothian.”

NHS Lothian chairman Brian Houston said: “Tim Davison is an exceptional leader who has displayed outstanding commitment to the NHS in Scotland throughout his impressive 37-year career.

“He has transformed the culture at NHS Lothian to one that is supportive and transparent and which prizes teamwork and respect.

“He has a formidable record of achievement and his focus on improving the quality of patient care will be a lasting legacy at NHS Lothian.

“We’ll be wishing him a very happy and, I’m sure, productive retirement in which to pursue his other interests.”