Isle of Man Government has confirmed two high level appointments, both key to achieving lasting reform of the Island’s health and social care system for the benefit of service users.
Kathryn Magson has been appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer at the Department of Health and Social Care, on a secondment from her current role as Chief Executive at NHS Herts Valleys Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). Ms Magson who has 12 years of experience in NHS senior management, will take over from current Interim CEO Angela Murray. Ms Magson is due to take up her role on 1 January 2020.
Minister for the Department of Health and Social Care David Ashford said:
‘Kathryn will take over the helm at DHSC at an exciting time of change and opportunity as we remodel the department and consider new ways to deliver services. Alongside responsibility for a large department and budget there is the day-to-day business to run - quite an undertaking, but Kathryn has an impressive track record of getting things done. She will build on the ongoing work of committed staff groups to develop and improve services across the board.’
John Spicer is appointed Health and Care Transformation Director following Tynwald’s unanimous agreement to implement all recommendations arising from Sir Jonathan Michael’s independent review of the Island’s health and social care system. Mr Spicer has extensive experience in a variety of senior roles in health and care services in England and takes up his role leading the Transformation team in the Cabinet Office this week.
Chief Secretary Will Greenhow said:
‘The Transformation Programme is charged with creating a sustainable system of health and care services for generations to come, and it will take drive, determination and a steady hand to bring about essential reforms. I am confident John is the right man for the job.
He added:
‘I am delighted with the appointment of two such high calibre individuals to these crucial positions, and offer a warm Manx welcome to John and Kathryn. Both were stand-out individuals in a strong field of candidates and demonstrated they have the skills required to take on the considerable challenges ahead. John and Kathryn will bring invaluable experience, fresh thinking and an open mind to their roles.’
Kathryn Magson said:
‘I am tremendously excited about this new role and it will be a privilege to lead the Department. I look forward to meeting colleagues in health and care services, all stakeholders and the wider Island community. I believe the key to positive change is forming strong relationships with partners and engaging the people we serve in developing the way ahead. This will be a challenging and complex journey and I have a lot to learn about the Island’s current system and its aspirations; but my drive will be to develop compassionate, good quality integrated health and care services for local people.’
John Spicer said:
‘I am delighted to be appointed as Transformation Director and excited about the prospect of moving here and learning about the Isle of Man. I am looking forward to doing positive things with and for the Island and am thrilled to have the opportunity to deliver for the Transformation Programme, the Department of Health and Social Care, the wider Government and most importantly, the whole Island community.’
He added:
‘There is a great deal of good work already underway and I am delighted to help support my colleagues in health and social care on our transformation journey. The success of the new system will rely on the engagement and commitment of those who provide and use services, so their input will be crucial.’
