We are delighted to announce that Peter Ellingworth has been appointed as the new Chair of Health Innovation Oxford and Thames Valley.
Peter has 25 years experience working at the interface of healthcare innovation and the NHS, following 20 years in industry. He is Chief Executive of the Association of British HealthTech Industries (ABHI) which represents healthcare businesses developing life-changing technologies for patients in medical devices, diagnostics and digital health. He has been a member of our Board since 2018 and has previously held board-level roles with two other Health Innovation Networks (HINs).
Peter is replacing Nigel Keen who is retiring after chairing the organisation since its creation in 2013.
Professor Gary Ford, Chief Executive of Health Innovation Oxford and Thames Valley, said: “On behalf of our partners I extend a huge thanks to Nigel for his work as the founding chair in establishing the network and providing sage advice and support over the last 11 years.
“We are privileged to have Peter chair our board. He brings expert understanding of optimising partnership working between the NHS and life science industry to improve patient outcomes and grow companies.”
Health Innovation Oxford and Thames Valley is hosted by Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The Trust’s Chief Executive, Professor Meghana Pandit, who is also the Vice Chair of our Board, said: “I am delighted with Peter’s appointment. His expertise will prove invaluable in helping the NHS maximise the potential of technology to improve outcomes for patients.”
Peter said: “The Health Innovation Network is the leading innovation arm of the NHS, and ABHI has supported their efforts since inception. By spreading innovation, improving health and driving economic growth, the HINs create a strong environment for industry collaboration with the health and social care system.
“This is evident within the Oxford and Thames Valley region, which is globally renowned for its life sciences capabilities, and is well-positioned to further advance its impact in the years ahead. It is a privilege to chair Health Innovation Oxford and Thames Valley, and I am dedicated to supporting Gary and the team in their work to benefit patients, the NHS and a thriving life sciences industry.”
Peter holds a number of key national roles including representing the healthtech industry on the Government’s Life Sciences Council, and contributing to the advisory group for the innovation system programme overseen by Roland Sinker on behalf of NHS England. He is also a newly appointed board member for the Office for Strategic Coordination of Health Research (OSCHR) which facilitates more efficient translation of health research into health and economic benefits in the UK through improved co-ordination and more coherent funding arrangements.