Crisis-Hit Betsi Cadwaladr appoints new Interim Chief Executive

A new Interim Chief Executive is set to take up their role at north Wales’ health board on Wednesday.

Gill Harris, who is the current Interim Chief Executive at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) is currently on prolonged sickness absence.

Dyfed Edwards, Interim Chair of the BCUHB announced the appointment of Carol Shillabeer to the post of Interim Chief Executive.

She has been Chief Executive of Powys Teaching Health Board since 2015.

Her role at Powys will be covered by Hayley Thomas, her Deputy Chief Executive.

The recruitment process for a permanent Chief Executive at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is underway.

The health board – which provides healthcare services to 700,000 people in north Wales – was put back into special measures by the Welsh government in February due to “serious concerns” over its performance, leadership, and culture. ‌

The decision to return BCUHB back to special measures followed a damning report from the Auditor General for Wales, which highlighted “deep-rooted issues” with working relationships at the most senior levels within the health board. ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

Betsi Cadwaladr has faced criticism over its health services, particularly in vascular and emergency medicine. ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

The Auditor General report led to increasing pressure on ministers to dismiss executives due to the criticism of the organisation’s management. ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

Health Minister Eluned Morgan appointed Dyfed Edwards as the new chair after forcing the resignations of all independent board members.

Dyfed Edwards said: “I am delighted to confirm that Carol will be joining us.

“Her extensive experience in Chief Executive and clinical leadership roles in NHS Wales coupled with her background in partnership working will be of great benefit to us as we work to build stability.

“On behalf of the Board, it’s my pleasure to welcome Carol to North Wales as we work together to make the progress needed to provide health services we can all be proud of.”

Carol Shillabeer said:“I am really pleased to be joining the Betsi team. I very much recognise the challenges, and I am also aware of the positive work already happening across North Wales and the passion and commitment of the staff and communities.

“I look forward to working together with and really listening to staff, partners and our communities, so that, together, we can use the opportunity that Special Measures presents to lead lasting, sustainable improvement.”

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