East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust is pleased to announce that Giles York will join as the new Chair of the organisation from 01 February 2027.
Giles York appointed Chair of East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust
Giles brings extensive senior leadership experience from across the NHS and wider public services. He is currently Chair of Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust (SCFT), having previously served as a Non-Executive Director, and has experience spanning community services, primary care, prevention and partnership working.
Prior to joining the NHS, Giles spent 30 years in policing, including six years as Chief Constable of Sussex Police. He also served as Vice-Chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, leading national work on digital transformation and workforce development, and was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for distinguished service.
His appointment comes as the trust develops its approach to an integrated partnership model for health and care in East Sussex, with greater emphasis on prevention, earlier intervention and providing more care closer to people’s homes.
Giles York said:
“I am delighted to be joining East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust at an important point in its development. The future of healthcare is increasingly about joining up hospital, community, primary and social care, with a much greater emphasis on prevention and supporting people closer to home. My NHS and wider public service experience has shown me the importance of working across organisational boundaries to make that happen. I look forward to working with colleagues, patients and partners across East Sussex to help shape that next chapter.”
Jayne Black, Chief Executive, said:
“I am delighted to welcome Giles to the trust. His values align strongly with ours: a commitment to public service, collaboration and inclusion, and a clear belief that the best outcomes come from organisations working together around the needs of local people. He brings extensive leadership experience and, importantly, a strong understanding of community services, primary care, prevention and partnership working. That experience fits strongly with our direction of travel as we work with partners to join up care across East Sussex, move more care closer to home and place greater emphasis on keeping people well. Giles will bring valuable experience, insight and challenge as we take that work forward.”
Giles succeeds Steve Phoenix who reached his two-term limit as Chair, and the trust would like to thank Steve for his leadership and significant contribution to the organisation during his time as Chair.