Rotherham Hospice chief executive quits

Chris Duff, chief executive since 2014, stepped down this week “for personal and professional reasons”.

Mr Duff announced his resignation in a statement issued to trustees.

He said: “Working for Rotherham Hospice over the last two years and eight months has been a very positive challenge.

“I have implemented many changes and improvements and believe that the hospice is in a stronger position to do even more for the people of Rotherham in future.”

He added: “There have been many wonderful highlights in relation to the compassion and dedication of our staff and volunteers and the generosity of the people and businesses in Rotherham.”

Lynda Shelton, chairman of the trustees, praised Mr Duff for helping to increase the hospice’s profile, foster corporate relationships, boost funding, offer more services and improve governance.

She added: “We are grateful for Christopher’s hard work over the past two and a half years. We wish him well for the future.”

In a message to staff, Ms Shelton said trustees will “reflect on the future leadership of the hospice” before choosing Mr Duff’s successor.

Trustee John Whaling has been appointed interim chief operating officer on a part-time basis.

He said: “I am honoured to be asked by the board to take on this role at this important time for the hospice.

“I joined the board almost two years ago to give something back after my father-in-law was nursed in the hospice.

“I am looking forward to working with the management team until we have settled the future leadership arrangements.”