Home care provider Bluebird Care has appointed Jonathan Gardner as chief operating officer and managing director.

Gardner has more than 25 years’ experience in healthcare services. He spent more than 25 years as a practising pharmacist after qualifying in 1996, before going on to become managing director of Boots Hearingcare and chief executive of Boots Opticians, with franchise structures and hundreds of practices across the UK.

Bluebird Care has 220 franchise offices across the UK and Ireland.

Gardner said: “For years, Bluebird Care has helped thousands of people to feel better every day right across the UK and Ireland, and that is what really matters to me – it is why I have dedicated my career to healthcare. I’m looking forward to meeting as many of our amazing and passionate franchise owners, managers, care teams and customers as I possibly can over the next few months.

“Throughout my career I have seen how much of a difference high quality care provision can make for people, and so now I am truly excited to work with the Bluebird Care family as we continue to go from strength-to-strength to make that difference for more people every day.”

Jennifer Sheets, president and chief executive at Caring Brands International, which owns Bluebird Care, said: “[Gardner’s] expertise in both healthcare and franchise leadership will be invaluable in supporting our customers and teams alike. Jonathan brings an impressive track record, and boundless passion for great quality care, to the team. It is clear that his values align with those of Bluebird Care and that he is committed to making sure people can live well at home and in their community for as long as possible.

“I have no doubt that he will be instrumental in helping us to achieve our goals and build on our strong reputation as a leading home care provider in the UK and Ireland.”