Alexander, who was previously chairman of the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and Charity from 2016 until 2022, announced his intention to step down at the end of his current term in December 2022.

He said: ‘It has been a huge privilege to lead the board of Guy's and St Thomas', an organisation that is dedicated not only to providing outstanding care to patients today, but also to being at the forefront of research and innovation that will transform care for patients in the future.'

Chief executive of Guy's and St Thomas', Dame Amanda Pritchard, said: ‘On behalf of the board, I want to extend our collective thanks to Charles for his dedicated and exemplary leadership over the past 4 years.

‘Throughout his time as chairman, his firm commitment to clinical excellence has been underpinned by research, education and innovation. He has championed and strengthened our partnerships with King's Health Partners and King's College London, recognising the vital role that academic collaboration plays in improving patient care, advancing scientific discovery and training the healthcare leaders of the future.

‘His commitment to integration, innovation and excellence leaves a lasting legacy for patients, staff and partners across our organisation and beyond.'