Current chief executive Owen Williams is leaving the trust on 30 September with the trust acknowledging ‘several significant challenges', including governance and assurance of patient safety, NHS England intervention, CQC warning notices, pressures on waiting times and financial sustainability, as well as industrial action.

NCA was issued with enforcement actions by NHSE in June due to a ‘fundamental failure in quality governance'.

The foundation trust has also undergone a damaging recent wave of industrial action and was the subject of Channel 4 allegations in August regarding the deaths of patients in surgery.

Williams will replace acting chief executive and chief finance officer and deputy chief executive Suzanne Robinson.

NCA chair Sheena McDonnell said: ‘We paused the chief executive appointment process so we could take stock of the challenges facing the trust and review the leadership needed for the future. The board is clear that the next stage of recruitment must be thorough, reflect recent staff feedback and staff survey results, involve stakeholders, and give us the best opportunity to secure the strongest possible candidates.

‘That process has already started, but it will take time. In the meantime, Kevin's appointment as an accomplished chief executive will provide stability and focus, and his experience, independence and fresh perspective will be important in helping us drive our improvement plans, engage with staff, and remain accountable to patients, stakeholders, NHS England and the CQC.'