Paterson has previously served as NIAS director of planning, performance and corporate services and deputy chief executive.

NIAS chair, Michele Larmour, said: ‘As interim chief executive, I know Maxine will drive forward the transformation agenda within NIAS. Already across many of the issues and challenges we face as a service, this continuity of leadership will be vital in the months ahead, as we engage with other partners and stakeholders across HSC, and beyond, in planning how we can best deliver the most appropriate care for our patients.

‘Maxine is also very aware of the many successes realised by committed colleagues across all levels of the Trust, especially within the current complex environment; she will actively engage with staff to continue to encourage everyone to give the best of themselves for the benefit of all.'

Paterson will take up the post on 1 April.