Following a formal and robust process, the Council of Governors has appointed Fatima Khan-Shah to the role of non-executive director for an initial term of three years.
Non-executive directors play a crucial role by bringing an independent perspective to the Trust’s boardroom. Appointed by the Council of Governors, they support the Chair, promote NHS values and contribute valuable insight to the development of strategy.
Initially from Sheffield and now based in Huddersfield, Fatima is known regionally and nationally for actively championing patient involvement, the recognition of carer support, leadership and diversity and inclusion. She is currently leading the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Health and Care Partnership Programmes for Personalised Care and for Unpaid Carers, which recently won a national award.
She also works nationally as a lay member on the NHS Assembly and the King’s Fund and as a Board Member on the Yorkshire and Humber Academic Health Science Network. She has previously held roles with NHS England, Kirklees CCGs, Kirklees Council, Health Education England and Healthwatch.
Fatima takes up her role on 1 December 2020.
Speaking about her recent appointment, Fatima said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to be joining the team at Sheffield Children’s.
“As a Non-Executive Director, I will be able to draw on my experiences as a leader in patient and public involvement and equality and diversity, providing advice, constructive challenge as well as a different perspective to the organisation’s Board of Directors.
“The NHS is very close to my heart. Over the years my family has benefited from the expertise and care of hospitals within this Trust and I can’t wait to play my part in helping us to meet the challenges and opportunities in the years to come.”
Welcoming the new appointee, Trust Chair, Sarah Jones, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to appoint an individual of Fatima’s calibre to our Board of Directors.
“With her extensive experience, she will provide a valuable and unique insight which will help to steer the organisation as we move forward and look to achieve our ambitions of outstanding patient care, being a brilliant place to work and a leader in children’s health.”
The Council of Governors also approved the extensions of John Cowling and Patricia Mitchell until 30 September 2021.