Claire Harley appointed as new Hospital Director of Benenden Hospital
Harley's role also includes membership of Benenden Health's Executive.
22nd April 2024, by Megan Anderson.
Benenden Hospital is pleased to announce the appointment of Claire Harley to the role of Hospital Director.
Claire has been the Director of Patient Services at Benenden Hospital since May 2010. During this time, she has significantly contributed to the success of the hospital, bringing a strong commitment to teamwork and ensuring high quality, safe care and an excellent patient experience.
Prior to joining Benenden Hospital, Claire was Clinical Team Manager of Therapy Services at NHS Greenwich in addition to holding the position of Chair of the Professional Executive Committee for NHS Greenwich. She had been at Greenwich since 1997, working closely with teams to redesign services, improving access and quality.
Claire succeeds Jane Abbott, who has led Benenden Hospital for 15 years, and is set to retire this April after a long career devoted to healthcare. Jane had first joined Benenden Hospital as Director of Nursing and Quality in 2003.
Claire Harley said: "I'm delighted and proud to be appointed to this position and taking over from Jane, who has done such an amazing job for the hospital over the last 15 years. I will continue to focus on our growth as an organisation, the health and wellbeing of staff, and the quality we provide to our patients.
"Our 2028 Vision is to be the South East’s leading private hospital, renowned for delivering a first-class experience, and I am privileged to be working with such a talented and dedicated team in the delivery of that vision."
Reporting to Benenden Health's Chief Executive Officer Bob Andrews, Claire will oversee the delivery of the day-to-day operational activity and implement the hospital’s strategy, as well as being a member of Benenden Health's Executive, focusing on delivering their business plan and corporate strategy, including HR strategy, corporate services, regulatory liaison, commissioning and funding.
Chief Executive Officer Bob Andrews said: "I'm delighted to welcome Claire Harley to the role of Hospital Director. During her time at Benenden Hospital so far, her expertise, dedication and strong commitment to ensuring high quality, safe care, and excellent patient experience have significantly contributed to the hospital’s success.
"I look forward to her joining our senior executive and working together as we deliver our collective objectives for both Benenden Hospital and Benenden Health’s continued growth and successes.
"I also want to thank Jane Abbott for everything she has done within her significant career, both within and without Benenden Hospital. All who work with her know that she is an inspirational leader and a caring colleague. I wish Jane well in whatever she chooses to do next."