West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust seeks new executive chief nurse as Sue Wilkinson retires after 40-year career
An ‘inspiring’ chief nurse is retiring after a 40-year career as the NHS Trust looks to find her successor who will lead 3,000 health care professionals.
The West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (WSFT) is on the lookout for a new executive chief nurse as Sue Wilkinson prepares to retire in July, marking the end of a nursing career spanning four decades.
Sue, who became a registered nurse in 1987, joined the Trust as interim chief nurse in May 2020 before being appointed permanently to the role in December the same year.
She said: “I have loved my nursing career, and feel privileged to have spent the last five years working with our amazing staff.
“Their commitment to the care of our patients and their families has been an inspiration.”
As a key member of the Trust’s executive team and Board, the executive chief nurse plays a vital role in shaping clinical strategy, upholding high standards of patient care and providing professional leadership across the Trust’s hospitals in Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe and Newmarket.
The role also involves leading critical areas such as patient engagement, safeguarding and infection prevention and control.
The successful candidate will be expected to foster a culture of excellence, compassion and innovation — ensuring the delivery of safe, equitable and high-quality care.
Chief executive Dr Ewen Cameron added: “Sue joined the Trust at the start of the pandemic, and has been a key member of our leadership team as we faced those challenges, and the ongoing recovery which has seen increasing demands and pressures on our services.
“She has provided inspiring and compassionate leadership to thousands of our colleagues in both our acute and community services.
“After more than 40 years as a nurse, Sue has earned a long and happy retirement, and will be much missed.
“We look forward to working with her successor.”
For more information about the role and how to apply, click here.
Applications close on Wednesday, February 12.