CHAT chairman pays tribute to NHS Highland chief executive who is to retire next year
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A CAITHNESS health campaigner has paid tribute to the chief executive of NHS Highland, Pam Dudek, who is to leave her post next year.
Ron Gunn, the chairman of the Caithness Health Action Team (CHAT), said: "I am sad to see her go. She was a breath of fresh air when she came in. We met her several times and continue to do so. She is always very happy to listen to the public and what they are are saying. Patient care was a high priority for her. We hope that whoever takes over has the same attitude. "
He added: We wish her all the best in the future. She really listened to us and was really keen to try and improve things. We hope her replacement will be able to work with us, too."
Mr Gunn was speaking after it was confirmed Ms Dudek is to retire in March.
She joined the NHS in Scotland in 1982 and NHS Highland in 2020 as interim deputy chief executive. She was appointed to the chief executive role in August that year, taking up the post in October 2020.
Announcing her plans to step down she said: "It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to head up NHS Highland.
"Every day I encounter people working so hard and with such skill and dedication, keen to deliver the best possible care.
"There have been many challenges and that will likely continue, but knowing the resilience and resourcefulness of my colleagues I have every confidence that NHS Highland will continue to be a fantastic provider of care, and will continue to prioritise setting a positive culture ensuring this board is a great place to work."
Ms Dudek added: "While I am looking forward to having more time to spend with my family, including my mother, children and grandchildren, my family of NHS colleagues will always have a special place in my heart.
"I have worked with many fantastic people and have achieved my career aspirations because of the support of many, for which I will always be thankful."
The recruitment process for her replacement is expected to get underway shortly.
