Prof Gardner will take over from current chief executive, Jane Grant, who is retiring, on 1 February 2025.

She said: ‘I am delighted to be appointed chief executive of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde at what is a truly exciting time in the NHS as we work to reform health and social care services.

‘As someone with a clinical background, it is a privilege to be joining an organisation with such an outstanding reputation for clinical excellence.
 
‘NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has so much capability within its fantastic staff and services, who work to deliver the best of care to its diverse population.
 
‘I am excited to work with them and our partners to find new solutions and opportunities to tackle the significant population health challenges we face.
 
‘I look forward to bringing all my experience and passion for innovation, technology, partnership working and clinical excellence to the Health Board as we work together to improve the experience for our patients and staff.'

Prof Gardner started her career as a clinical pharmacist training in both NHS Lanarkshire and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and then progressed through a number of hospital and healthcare management roles, including deputy chief executive and chief operating officer in NHS Fife.

She was appointed as a chief executive, initially with NHS Golden Jubilee and then, in December 2022, with NHS Lanarkshire.