News

Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber has today announced Christine Outram MBE as its new chair.

Chris brings a wealth of expertise to the role having been a non-executive director at the organisation since 2015 and with over 20 years’ experience at Chief Executive level within the NHS. Most recently she was the Chair of the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, one of Europe’s leading specialist cancer centres, for nine years. Chris championed the expansion of world class medical research and innovation in the treatment of cancer patients.

Her roles at national level included leading a major downsizing of the Department of Health’s arm’s length bodies and establishing new arrangements for professional education and training. She also took the national lead on diversity and equality during her time as a London Strategic Health Authority CEO, and she continues to champion passionately the cause of better inclusion of all staff and patients. She was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours in 2019, for services to NHS patients.

Professor Will Pope will step down as chair, a role he has occupied since the organisation was established. He will stay on as a non-executive director to continue providing the senior leadership team with advice and support.

Richard Stubbs, Chief Executive of Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber said:

“We’re really pleased that Chris will be the new chair of Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber as she brings a wealth of experience to the role and a deep understanding of the NHS.  I’d like to thank Will for his long and distinguished service as chair and all his contributions to the organisation since its inception. We’re delighted that he will be staying on in the organisation as a non-executive director and continue to provide the amazing support he has given me in my entire time here as Chief Executive”.

Chris Outram MBE added:

“It’s a pleasure to be stepping into the role of Chair and I can’t wait to get started in my new capacity. After nine years as a non-executive director at Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber, I’m really looking forward to providing strategic oversight to the board and helping to shape the organisation’s future.

Anyone who has worked with me will know how strongly committed I am to championing innovation and service transformation. These are critical drivers in enhancing patient experience, improving healthcare outcomes, easing the burden on frontline services, and delivering substantial system-wide savings. It’s a mission that has been at the heart of this organisation from the very beginning.”

Professor William Pope commented:

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved as an organisation over the last 10 years. Our commitment to innovation and service excellence has made a real impact, transforming lives and healthcare systems alike. None of this would have been possible without the dedication and hard work of Richard and the entire team. I am deeply grateful for their tireless efforts and collaboration in making our vision a reality. As I step back from my role as Chair, I’m pleased to continue supporting the organisation as a non-executive director, ensuring our mission stays on course”.