We are thrilled to announce a significant development at St Margaret’s Hospice ahead of Ann Lee’s retirement as CEO later this summer
James Rimmer, an exceptional leader with a wealth of experience, is set to join our hospice as the new CEO. This appointment marks an exciting chapter in our journey, one that promises growth, innovation, and ongoing dedication to our mission.
James brings a remarkable background in healthcare leadership, having recently led the Somerset Integrated Care System (ICS) and served as Chief Executive of the Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). His extensive executive roles in institutions such as Weston Area Health NHS Trust, University Hospitals Bristol, Royal United Hospital Bath, and Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust have seen him drive forward strategy, transformation, and performance in those organisations.
I am delighted to be joining St Margaret’s Hospice and am looking forward to meeting you all, learning more about all the incredible work and contributions that you make. Having grown up in Somerset and having worked here for more than half of my career I have a long-standing relationship with St Margaret’s and a passion for serving the people of this county. Professionally I have worked with the hospice in several NHS leadership roles, stretching back over the last 20 years, most recently as Chief Executive for NHS Somerset CCG.”
On a personal level, James has experienced first-hand the exceptional care and support our team provides. Witnessing the compassionate care his father received in his final days has instilled in him a profound sense of pride and genuine excitement for leading St Margaret’s into its next chapter.
This appointment is a significant milestone for our charity, and we anticipate a fresh wave of ideas, energy, and enthusiasm as James assumes his role. James will officially step into his new position in September as we bid farewell to our current CEO Ann Lee, who starts her well-deserved retirement. We express our heartfelt gratitude for her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment over the past 24 years. We embark on this transition with a sense of gratitude for the past and determination to embrace the future with open arms.
We invite you all to join us in welcoming James as the new CEO of St Margaret’s as he takes the organisation forward, working strategically to provide compassionate hospice care for our whole community, and dedicated in supporting St Margaret’s reach more people in need of end-of-life support.