Cygnet Health Care chief executive David Cole has handed in his resignation and will be leaving the private mental health provider at the end of the year, HealthInvestor understands.

Cole (pictured) joined Cygnet as chief executive in 2014 from Choice Care Group, where he was chairman.

A mental healthcare nurse by background, Cole has worked in the health and social care sector for over 30 years and has held senior positions at companies such as Castlebeck, Priory Group and Lighthouse Healthcare.

During his time at Cygnet, the company acquired Orchard Portman House and Alpha Hospitals.  

Cygnet could not be reached for comment.