ANNE-MARIE Dean has stepped down as head of Darent Valley Hospital today. (NOV 6)
Commenting on her decision to take voluntary early retirement, the chief executive said: "It is natural time to move on to the next challenge".
Her departure comes a month after the Dartford hospital was branded the worst in the country and Mrs Dean was told she had three months to turn it around or be fired.
Mrs Dean said: "After 24 years at this trust and having completed the new hospital building and established the organisation in the new environment, this is a natural time to think about moving on to the next challenge.
"I have had the benefit of a tremendous team and wish the trust every success in the future."
The South East Regional Office of the NHS is now looking for a new chief executive to replace Mrs Dean.
In the meantime, chairman of Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust Sarah Dunnett will be running the hospital.
She said: "I am taking over at a difficult and challenging time. But it is a challenge that I relish.
"With the help of staff and the support of local people, I am confident that Darent Valley Hospital can take up its rightful place as one of the best in the country."
November 6, 2001 16:17
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