HCA Healthcare UK has appointed Simon Radley as medical director for The Harborne Hospital, a new multi-specialty private hospital opening in Birmingham in autumn this year.

Radley has more than 37 years’ experience within the healthcare industry, specialising in general and colorectal surgery. During this time, he has played a key role in introducing new surgical protocols and techniques to the University Hospital Birmingham, and was instrumental in setting up the Birmingham Bowel Clinic.

Radley’s medical training began at Birmingham University Medical School, where he graduated in surgery. Having completed basic surgical training, he undertook a period of research into colorectal cancer for which he was awarded an MD by the University of Birmingham.

He continued surgical training in general surgery in the West Midlands, before completing specialist colorectal surgical training at St Marks Hospital in London. During this time, Radley undertook an overseas travelling fellowship to the US, to study treatments for rectal cancer, having been awarded grants from the International College of Surgeons and Royal College of Surgeons of England. On completion of his training, he took up a post as senior lecturer and honorary consultant surgeon in colorectal surgery at Birmingham University and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

In 2002, Radley became an NHS consultant colorectal surgeon at University Hospital Birmingham, where he has remained since.

Radley said: “Throughout my career, collaborating with the best clinicians to deliver patients the best treatment and care has always been paramount to me. This is an approach which I intend to carry through to my role as medical director at The Harborne Hospital. The Harborne Hospital will offer comprehensive and specialist care across multiple disciplines, meaning we can provide support to those in the region at every stage of their healthcare journey.”

Claire Smith, chief executive of joint ventures for HCA Healthcare UK said: “We warmly welcome Simon to HCA Healthcare UK, as The Harborne Hospital’s new medical director. Simon’s extensive experience with launching new clinics, techniques and protocols, alongside his leadership and business background, will support our commitment to having ‘exceptional people, delivering exceptional care. Simon was trained in Birmingham and has continued to work in the region for the majority of his career, so we can think of no one better to lead and manage the hospital’s highly qualified workforce.”