Heather Knox has announced that she will retire from the post of NHS Lanarkshire chief executive in November this year.

Heather said: “This has not been an easy decision to make. I have very much valued working with colleagues across NHS Lanarkshire – especially over the last few years.

“Our staff have shown outstanding professionalism and commitment in the way they have supported our patients, me in my role as chief executive, and each other during the pandemic.

“Despite all the ongoing pressures, I know colleagues will continue to make NHS Lanarkshire the wonderful place it is to work and deliver healthcare. Thank you to all our staff for everything you do every day.”

Heather is planning to step down after a 35-year career in the NHS. She was appointed chief executive of NHS Lanarkshire in September 2020 after working as interim chief executive from June 2020.

Martin Hill, chair of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Heather has made a huge and effective contribution to the success of NHS Lanarkshire and the development of such a positive organisational culture. Although we have worked together for a relatively short time, I have come to respect Heather’s hard work and dedication to NHS Lanarkshire and I am grateful to her for her support to me in my new role as chair.

“On behalf of the Board and everyone in NHS Lanarkshire I want to thank her and wish her well when her retirement comes. We look forward to working with Heather for her remaining period in office as we continue to strengthen the organisation as an effective provider of patient services now and in the future, and as an excellent place to work.”

A recruitment process will be undertaken to recruit a new chief executive.