James took up the role of CEO in September 2023, bringing with him a personal but also professional connection to the charity, an individual who understood well our Somerset communities. James brought a key understanding of the health system, and where St Margaret’s could continue to have impact for our patients and families, and he spent much time with staff and volunteers, and our patients and their families, to experience this more closely.
James says “I have enjoyed my time at St Margaret’s Hospice, a charity I have known for many years, and have first-hand experience of with the care given to my father and now more recently my mother. Having led the development of the next 5-year strategy, I leave the organisation focused on what it is capable of delivering for our patients and families of Somerset, building on many years of high quality, personalised care, and wish them every success as they move forward.”
Tom Samuel, Chair of the Board, adds “The Board would like to thank James for his passion for the work of St Margaret’s and his time as CEO. James has always been an advocate of the Hospice, recognising its value, and has represented this well internally, to our patients and their families, and our partners and external stakeholders. We wish James the best with his future endeavours”.
As a new CEO is recruited, St Margaret’s current Director of Fundraising, Retail & Communications, Joanna Hall will act as interim CEO, working with the Board and Executive Team to lead the organisation. And finally, from all the staff and volunteers at St Margaret’s we thank James and wish him the very best.