Moorfields’ chief executive to step down

John Pelly, chief executive of Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has announced that he is retiring, and will step down from his post at the end of November 2015.

John joined Moorfields as its chief executive in April 2008 and has been instrumental in growing and strengthening this highly-regarded organisation. During John’s tenure, a host of clinical initiatives has been introduced to respond to the rapidly changing world of eye care, and new management arrangements put in place to ensure that clinical decisions are taken as close to the front line as possible. Moorfields’ footprint has extended from 12 locations to 22 in and around London, enabling us to provide expert eye care closer to where patients live and work. In research, we maintained our National Institute for Health Research biomedical research centre status, dramatically improving the resources available to look into new cures and treatments for eye conditions. We have also been rated as among the best in the country as a place to work and receive treatment in the two most recent national NHS staff surveys.

Moorfields’ chairman Rudy Markham says: “In addition to supporting the substantial growth of the organisation over the last seven years, John has overseen a sustained programme to develop better clinical outcomes, improved patient experience, and stronger and more consistent financial performance.  He has also brought a strong strategic focus to the development of Moorfields’ commercial interests, and has been assiduous in attracting potential interest and support for our fundraising activities. 

“I have always found my working relationship with John a stimulating and productive one, and will miss him and his contribution to Moorfields.  His achievements over the last seven years speak for themselves.”

John said: “It has been a privilege to lead this extraordinary and vibrant organisation. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Moorfields, in particular the incredible opportunities it has offered which would not have been possible in many other NHS institutions. I am immensely proud of the team that I have built and of our achievements together and would like especially to thank the many excellent staff I have worked with over the years; they are, without a shadow of a doubt, what makes Moorfields the place it is, and I shall miss them.”