POOLE Hospital’s new chief executive Debbie Fleming has taken up her post.

She brings with her more than 30-years experience in the NHS and marks a return to the hospital where she began her management career.

“It’s a privilege to be returning to Poole Hospital as chief executive,” she said. “The hospital has a history and tradition of providing innovative, high quality, patient-centred care and I am extremely proud to be part of this organisation again.”

She added: “I am looking forward to working with staff from across the hospital to create a sustainable future for the organisation, and am committed to ensuring that we maintain the quality, passion and values that make Poole Hospital so special.”

She took up her post on April 1, taking over from former chief executive Chris Bown.

Angela Schofield, chairman of Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Debbie is an extremely experienced and capable person with all the attributes required to steer this trust through the challenges ahead.”