Tell us a bit about your background, skills and experience
I’m a chartered accountant by training, but my career has taken me on quite a journey through the private sector, public service and education. After qualifying with Deloitte and working as an audit manager, I moved into further education as Director of Finance at Stevenson College Edinburgh. It was a time of big changes and tight budgets, but also a chance to help shape the college’s future and support new outreach projects. From 2000 to 2021, I worked at the Scottish Funding Council, where I ended up as Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive. That role gave me the chance to work with brilliant people and help steer public funding to colleges and universities across Scotland. I’ve also had a stint as Interim Chief Officer of the Glasgow Colleges’ Regional Board, helping to steady the ship and build stronger relationships. Over the years, I’ve picked up a fair bit of experience in strategic planning, governance, financial management and risk. In 2021, I was humbled to be awarded a CBE for services to education – a lovely surprise that I still have to pinch myself over.
What inspired you to apply to join NHS Forth Valley’s Board?
I’ve always believed in public service and wanted to keep contributing after stepping back from my work with colleges and universities. The NHS has played a big part in my life and my family’s life, so when the opportunity came up to support NHS Forth Valley, it felt like the right fit. Living in Larbert, I feel a strong connection to the local area and wanted to give something back to the community I call home.
How do you support the work of the Board?
I attend Board meetings and seminars, and I’m involved in several committees including being Chair of the Staff Governance Committee. I try to bring a thoughtful and practical perspective to discussions, especially when it comes to how we can improve patient care and staff experience. Of course, there’s no doubt that NHS Forth Valley, like every other part of the NHS, is facing huge pressure from ever-increasing needs, which makes it all the more important that we successfully implement our new Population Health and Care Strategy, including its focus on value-based healthcare. My aim is to help the Board implement the new strategy by making sound decisions that balance ambition with realism, and to support the wider team in delivering great services.
What do you like best about your role as a Non-Executive Board member?
I really enjoy being part of a team that’s working to make a difference. It’s rewarding to contribute to the strategic direction of NHS Forth Valley and to support the delivery of high-quality care. I also love hearing from staff and learning about the amazing work happening across the organisation – it’s inspiring and keeps me grounded.
What have you learned about the NHS and local health services since you joined the Board?
I’ve come to appreciate just how complex and resilient the NHS is. The dedication of staff, especially during tough times, is nothing short of remarkable. I’ve also seen how important it is to work in partnership across health and social care, and how vital it is to support staff wellbeing.
What are your interests and hobbies outside of work?
Music is a big part of my life – I run a small piano teaching practice and love sharing the joy of music with others. Combining music with finance, I’m Treasurer for the wonderful, and wonderfully named, Govan-based music charity The Glasgow Barons. I’m actively involved in my local church, where I serve as an elder and organist/choirmaster. And for something completely different, I try to keep on the road a small 1930s sports car and have been known to race it at the Doune, Bo’ness and Forrestburn hill climbs (albeit with no success to date!). These activities, along with my wife Anne and three grown-up children, help keep me balanced!
What message would you like to share with local staff and partners?
A heartfelt thank you for everything you do. Your care, commitment and resilience make a huge difference every single day. Please keep speaking up – whether it’s to raise concerns, share ideas or celebrate successes. We’re here to listen and to support you in building a health service that works for everyone.
