Wessex Health Partners appoints Christine McGrath as Managing Director

Wessex Health Partners (WHP), a new learning partnership accelerating better health through research, education and innovation, has appointed Christine McGrath as its inaugural Managing Director.

Christine has a clinical background and has developed her career from a research nurse to leadership roles regionally and nationally, founding and chairing national networks in healthcare research and development (R&D).

She joins Wessex Health Partners from University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, where she held the position of Director of Strategy and Partnerships.

A member of the executive team, Christine led on strategy, clinical networks, research and innovation, working across the whole organisation to collaborate with partners in the newly-formed Hampshire and Isle of Wight integrated care system and wider Wessex region.

Speaking about her appointment, Christine said:

“As an executive leader in the NHS, I have dedicated my career to improving health and care through research, innovation and partnership working. From research nurse to Director and national lead, my work has been incredibly rewarding.

"I can see the enormous potential of combining the strengths and expertise in our region to tackle the health and care challenges our communities face and I am delighted to have the opportunity, both on a personal level and for our region, to lead Wessex Health Partners forward.”

Commenting on the appointment, Professor William Rosenberg, Chair of Wessex Health Partners, said:

“Christine is dedicated to the prosperity of Wessex and the health and care of the Wessex population.

"She brings a vast knowledge of research and innovation networks to benefit the strategic delivery of Wessex Health Partners, and a strong track record in developing flourishing learning cultures through entrepreneurial thinking and tenacious execution.

"We are thrilled that Christine has accepted our offer to join the partnership.”

Dr Peter Phiri, Director of Research and Innovation (Interim) for WHP founding partner Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“Christine’s appointment as Wessex Health Partners’ inaugural Managing Director marks a milestone in the organisation's journey.

"With a wealth of knowledge and experience in research and innovation from working with policy makers, NIHR, industry, integrated care boards and NHS R&D leaders, and a proven track record of achievement in the NHS, she brings not only a vast array of talent and expertise, but also a unique opportunity to drive strategic objectives and bring positive change to the health and wellbeing of the Wessex region.

"This is a truly momentous appointment, and one that holds great hope for the future of the region.”