During Prof Wood's time at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, he led the response to the Covid-19 pandemic and has been instrumental in developing the plans for the Innovation Village at Leeds General Infirmary.  He has spearheaded the work with the Virginia Mason Institute to develop the Leeds Improvement Method, embedding a culture of continuous improvement.

Prof Wood's impact and dedication has been felt even more widely across the health and care system through his roles as chair of the Leeds Academic Health Partnership, the North-East and Yorkshire Genomics Medicine Board, board member for the National Genomics Board, co-chair of the West Yorkshire Cancer Alliance and board member of the Northern Health Science Alliance.

He will be working over the next five months with incoming trust chair Antony Kildare to maintain stability across the organisation during this time of change across the NHS.

Prof Wood said: ‘It feels this is the right moment to make a change and allow a new chief executive the opportunity to steer this wonderful organisation, as the NHS embarks on delivering the new 10-Year Plan and creating Provider Collaboratives.

‘One thing has remained consistent throughout my time in the NHS – the unwavering commitment from staff to do their very best for our patients.'

Dame Linda Pollard, chair of Leeds Teaching Hospitals, added: ‘During his 30-year career, Phil has made a huge difference to patients and colleagues. His commitment to continuous improvement and addressing health inequalities will stand the test of time, helping to deliver the healthcare of the future for our city and beyond. I wish him very well for his retirement when it comes.'