Elaine Mead has announced today that she is to step down as Chief Executive of NHS Highland at the end of December 2018.
After a pioneering career in the NHS spanning over 30 years, Professor Elaine Mead has decided that the time is right to move on and pursue her passion for quality improvement.
Elaine joined NHS Highland in February 2005 from West Dorset General Hospitals, where she was Director of Operations and Deputy Chief Executive.
One of her first jobs was to oversee the smooth transition following the Scottish Governments decision to dissolve Argyll and Clyde Health Board, with Argyll and Bute becoming part of NHS Highland.
Announcing her decision to leave NHS Highland, Professor Elaine Mead said: “It has been an absolute privilege to have spent my career in the NHS, with the best of times here in Highland.
“This week, as we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the NHS, I want to pay tribute to all of our fantastic staff up and down the country but in particular to my colleagues here in NHS Highland.
“There is no question our frontline staff are very highly regarded and it’s been humbling to see the difference they make to people’s lives day in and day out.
“Our staff support and practice great medicine and provide great care. I warmly and sincerely thank each and every one of them.”