The trusts said it was right ‘for the time being' to maintain two chief executives after the scale of their operational and financial challenges over the coming year had become clearer.

The trusts initially said they intended to appoint a group chief executive when announcing their group plans in November 2025.

Jonathan Wade will continue to lead both organisations until 31 March, after which he will focus fully on his role as chief executive of Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust.

In the meantime, Medway will begin the process of appointing a substantive chief executive and Siobhan Callanan will continue as interim deputy chief executive.

John Goulston, chair, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘The creation of the group is a major step forward at a time when the NHS in Kent and Medway is undergoing significant change, alongside considerable operational and financial pressures. In this context, both trusts are committed to progressing carefully, with sufficient support in place, to ensure that we get this right for patients and staff.'

Jackie Craissati, chair, Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust, said: ‘We must balance the leadership capacity required to address immediate priorities – such as improving patient care and reducing costs – while also laying the foundations needed to realise the full benefits of the group.'