IT’S been quite a year already for ELFT’s Chief Executive Dr Navina Evans. On 1 January 2020, she was awarded a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2020 New Year’s Honours List, for her services to NHS leadership and the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic community.

Then, in March it was announced that she has been appointed new chief executive of Health Education England (HEE).Navina, who has led ELFT for the last three-and-a-half years and worked for the Trust for 25 years, will continue as chief executive until October, ensuring that we continue to deliver continuously improving services and contribute effectively to system working, particularly during the current COVID-19 emergency.

Navina said:

‘‘I am proud to be joining my new colleagues in HEE at a time when caring for and developing our health and care staff is of greatest importance. I look forward to working with them to develop the skilled, responsive and compassionate workforce of the future.

"Whilst I am sad to be leaving my fantastic friends in ELFT, I will continue to follow you with joy as you always strive to improve the quality of life for all you serve.”

The next six months will be spent identifying and appointing her successor. This search will be led by our new Chair.