St Joseph’s Hospice has appointed Rachel Black as its next chief executive.

She joins from Orpheus Centre, an education provider for people with disabilities, where she has held the same role for the last five years.

Black, who is a registered nurse and universities lecturer, has held senior roles at other hospice charities, replaces Tony McLean, who retires this month.

She is a former director of care at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice and has also worked with Demelza Hospice Care for Children leading clinical education and nurse consultancy.

The charity’s deputy chief executive Jane Naismith will serve as interim CEO until Black is in post later this year.

“Rachel brings a rare combination of proven strong organisational leadership skills, a deep experience of palliative care and a noteworthy contribution as a published researcher and lecturer,” said St Joseph’s chair Paddy McGuinness.

“Tony joined us in 2018 and has shown exceptional leadership throughout his term including the Covid pandemic and the more recent economic turbulence. While welcoming Rachel, we also mark Tony’s outstanding service with huge admiration and thanks.”

Black added: “St Joseph's and its people have an inspiring record of providing compassionate palliative and end-of-life care, personalised for each individual and those important to them.

“I am delighted to be joining the team and am looking forward to learning more about St Joseph’s rich history, and meeting patients, families, trustees, staff, volunteers and local communities."

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