Trust Board Appointments

Posted on 12th December, 2008

Devon Partnership NHS Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of two new non-executive directors to its Board and the re-appointment of its Chair, Keith Portlock, and non-executive director, Judie Yung. Iain Tulley, Chief Executive of Devon Partnership NHS Trust comments: “I’m delighted that Keith and Judie have been re-appointed and that we will further strengthen our Board with the appointment of Ray O’Connell and Richard Smith. Both Ray and Richard have held senior positions in the business world and their experience and expertise will be immensely valuable to the Trust as we continue our journey towards becoming an NHS Foundation Trust. Along with Keith and Judie, they are both committed to improving the quality of services for people with mental health needs and I welcome them to the NHS.” Ray O’Connell is a highly qualified professional in finance and commerce with extensive experience in banking, management and business planning and is also a Trustee for the Almeida Theatre in London and the Northcott Theatre in Exeter. Richard Smith is a qualified chartered accountant and has held senior positions as Finance Director and Chief Executive in a range of businesses in the private sector. He has also held a number of non-executive director and consultant positions with national organisations. Keith Portlock has been Chair of the Trust since its formation in 2001, after a long and distinguished career in the police service. For more than 25 years he has also played an active role in issues concerning people with learning disabilities. In 1995 he was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for distinguished service in the New Year’s Honours List and in the 2002 New Year’s Honour List, Her Majesty awarded Keith the OBE for his service to the police and to people with learning disabilities. Judie Yung has also been with the Trust since its formation. Judie’s career was in management in the NHS and she held posts both in planning and managing mental health and learning disabilities services in the East End of London. She has also worked with the voluntary and charity sectors and has experience in public relations for a national museum. In addition she brings her experience of working for the NHS Leadership Centre as a Personal Development Adviser for chairmen and chief executives. Iain Tulley adds:  “Our two new non-executive directors succeed Sam McKibbin and Linda Williams, whose contracts have now expired.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sam and Linda for their valued contribution to the Trust over the years and, on behalf of the Board, wish them every success for the future.” The appointments were made in accordance with the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments’ Code of Practice. All non-executive appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity (if any is declared) to be made public. Mr O’Connell, Mr Smith, Mr Portlock and Mrs Yung have had no ministerial appointments or political affiliations. As non-executive directors of Devon Partnership NHS Trust Mr O’Connell, Mr Smith and Mrs Yung will receive a remuneration of £6,005 per annum. As Chairman, Mr Portlock will receive £20,587 per annum. All have been appointed to their posts by the NHS Appointments Commission on behalf of the Secretary of State for Health.  Ray O’Connell and Richard Smith will serve from 1 December 2008 to 30 November 2012.  Keith Portlock and Judie Yung from 1 December 2008 to 30 November 2009. Devon Partnership NHS Trust works closely with health and social care providers across Devon to support the recovery of people with mental health needs. It serves a population of around 890,000 people and employs 2,200 staff.