Chief Executive recruitment

Dear Candidate,

Thank you for your interest in the role of Chief Executive of NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly and NHS Devon.

This is a remarkable opportunity to lead an organisation that sits at the heart of one of England’s most distinctive and diverse health and care systems. Covering Devon, Plymouth, Torbay and Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, our ICB serves communities that are proud of their local identity, ambitious for their future, and committed to working together to improve health and wellbeing for all. South West Peninsula is a place of enormous opportunity. Our geography, our population and our partnerships create both unique challenges and unique strengths. We need a Chief Executive who is excited by that complexity and inspired by the possibility of making a tangible difference to the lives of people across our region.

We are looking for an exceptional leader to help us navigate one of the most important periods of change in the history of the NHS. The challenges facing health and care services are significant, but so too are the opportunities. The shift towards prevention, neighbourhood health, greater integration of services, and the use of digital innovation provides a unique platform to improve outcomes, tackle inequalities and create a more sustainable system for future generations. Working closely with the Board and with me as Chair, you will lead the next phase of our development, ensuring that we deliver excellent stewardship of public resources while keeping the needs of local people at the centre of every decision.

The successful candidate will be a visible, authentic and values-driven leader. You will combine strategic vision with operational credibility, bringing the ability to lead transformation at pace while building trust across complex partnerships. Most importantly, you will understand that lasting improvement comes through collaboration, listening to communities and empowering others to succeed.

This role is about more than organisational leadership. It is about shaping the future of health and care for our communities, championing the reduction of inequalities, supporting innovation, and creating the conditions for people and organisations to thrive. It is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.

If you share our ambition, our commitment to public service and our belief in the power of partnership, I encourage you to consider this exceptional opportunity.

We hope this pack gives you a clear sense of both the scale of the opportunity and the difference you could make. If you are motivated by complex challenges, inspired by system leadership, and energised by the chance to shape governance for the future, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Yours sincerely,
John Govett
Chair — NHS Devon & NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
South West Peninsula ICB Cluster