Independent hospital group Spire Healthcare Group has appointed John Forrest as chief operating officer, effective 8 October.

Forrest (pictured) joins from pub retailer and brewer Greene King, where he held a number of senior positions, including chief operating officer for retail and most recently managing director for its pub partners division.

Prior to Greene King, Forrest worked for Whitbread for eight years, including four years as chief operating officer of Premier Inn. Earlier in his career John worked for a number of major retailers.

Spire Healthcare chief executive Justin Ash said: “Having personally spent a lot of time in the operation, I have been able to identify the most important attributes for the COO role. I am confident that the extensive experience, knowledge and relevant skills which John has built up over his career will make a significant and positive difference to Spire.”