King Edward VII’s Hospital has announced the appointment of Sir Richard Sykes, who will succeed Robin Broadhurst when he retires as chairman of the hospital on 31 March.

Broadhurst has led the organisation over the last six years and was a trustee of the hospital for ten years. Broadhurst guided the organisation through a period of change and growth, including the successful campaign to raise £30 million for the hospital redevelopment appeal.

Sir Richard will assume the role from 1 April 2019. He recently retired as chairman of Imperial College Healthcare Trust and has also held the post of chairman and chief executive of GlaxoWellcome, chairman of GlaxoSmithKline and rector of Imperial College London.

Currently, Sir Richard is chairman of the board of The Royal Institution and Chancellor of Brunel University.

Commenting, Lindsey Condron, chief executive, said: “Robin’s commitment and dedication to King Edward VII’s Hospital has been outstanding and I am very grateful for all that he has delivered as chair as well as the support he has provided to the executive team and me.

“I am delighted that we will have Sir Richard working with us to guide King Edward VII's Hospital through its next phase of growth. Sir Richard has extensive healthcare experience with a strong track record in leading and chairing a range of institutions and will bring significant expertise to the organisation.” 

Commenting, Broadhurst said: “Whilst it is always a difficult choice to retire from an institution as prestigious as King Edward VII’s Hospital, I am delighted that the board has appointed Sir Richard Sykes to succeed me as Chairman. I have every confidence that Sir Richard will be a superb steward of the Board and the Hospital as King Edward VII’s continues to progress.”

Commenting, Sir Richard Sykes said: “I feel very privileged to have been chosen for this role at a time of significant change and very much look forward to making a positive contribution to this outstanding institution.”