Previously, chief executive of Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Surrey, Rankin is currently chief executive of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

Rankin will take up the role on 3 September, following the retirement of the trust's current chief executive Ron Shields in July following a 46-year long NHS career.

Neil Hayward, chair of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘Suzanne impressed throughout the appointment process with her experience, people-focused approach and clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for health in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Suzanne demonstrated a strong alignment with our values of compassion, accountability, respect and excellence, and a passion for working collaboratively for and with the populations we serve. I am delighted to welcome her to the trust and I know she and I will work well together.

‘I would also like to express my gratitude to Ron Shields for his leadership and contribution to local healthcare; the culmination of a long and successful career of public service.'

Rankin said: ‘I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the trust and the wider Hampshire and Isle of Wight health and care system at such an important time. Together we have a golden opportunity to bring real benefits for local people across the county and the Island. This area has always been my home and it will be a privilege to lead the healthcare services provided to the communities my family and I are part of.'

Rankin's appointment follows the merger in October 2024 that created Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.