NHS Fife chief in charge during Sandie Peggie trans row tribunal taking 'early retirement'

NHS Fife’s chief executive who was in charge during the Sandie Peggie tribunal is to quit her post to take “early retirement”.

Carol Potter announced her intention to leave on Monday, following a career in the NHS spanning more than 30 years.

She has presided over the ongoing high-profile employment tribunal brought by nurse Sandie Peggie against the health board.

Ms Peggie was suspended by NHS Fife after she complained about having to share a changing room with trans medic Dr Beth Upton at Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy.

Earlier this year, Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay demanded that Ms Potter and her board resign over what he called “dire handling” of the case.

She took up the post as interim chief executive in January 2020 and was formally appointed permanently in September that year.

Ms Potter will formally step down in the summer of next year, and NHS Fife said arrangements will be made to appoint her successor.

Speaking about her decision, she said: “It has been a privilege to serve as chief executive of NHS Fife and to work alongside such talented and dedicated colleagues across health and social care.

“I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, particularly in our response to the pandemic, our focus on continuous improvement and learning, and our shared commitment to delivering safe, effective, person-centred care for the people of Fife.

“As I prepare to retire, I remain deeply committed to NHS Fife and confident in the strength and resilience of the organisation. Our leadership framework and values-led culture are now firmly embedded, providing stability and clarity during this transition.

“We have also made important progress in strengthening our financial sustainability, with strong governance and focused transformation laying the foundations for long-term improvement.

“I leave knowing NHS Fife has dedicated leaders, a clear direction, and a culture of continuous learning, giving me complete confidence in its future and its ability to continue delivering high-quality care for the people of Fife.

“After more than 30 years in the NHS, I feel the time is right to hand over to a new chief executive who will continue to build on this strong foundation. I would like to thank staff across NHS Fife for their professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our patients and communities.”