Fiona Durban appointed Chief Operating Officer of the NIHR Clinical Research Network: Eastern

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has appointed Fiona Durban as Chief Operating Officer of the National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network for Eastern, which has its administrative base at the Trust.

The NIHR Clinical Research Network is the clinical research delivery arm of the NHS, and last year was responsible for helping more than 630,000 patients to take part in research studies that contribute towards improving treatments for the future.

As Chief Operating Officer, Fiona will ensure that the Network's activities across the Eastern area are carried out effectively, and that funding of £19 million per year is allocated to local hospitals and surgeries to support their involvement in clinical research.

Fiona will take up the role in December, bringing a wealth of experience to the post having worked clinically for ten years in radiotherapy, followed by key senior management roles, including leading the Norfolk and Waveney Cancer Network and working at the Strategic Health Authority.

Fiona is currently a divisional operational manager in anaesthetics, theatres and critical care at NNUH, managing 900 staff and a budget of £47 million. She says: “I am from a clinical background and I have a passion for patient care. This role is a fantastic opportunity and I would like to make a priority of enabling more patients across the new network to take part in a research study.”

Anna Dugdale, Chief Executive at NNUH, says: “This is a key appointment in the Clinical Research Network in the region and I am delighted that Fiona Durban has been appointed to the role. We are in the process of recruiting to the role of Clinical Director for CRN Eastern which together with the Chief Operating Officer will be crucial in the creation of a cohesive and vibrant network offering opportunities to patients to be involved in research studies as far and wide in the region as possible.”

Dr Jonathan Sheffield, Chief Executive of the NIHR Clinical Research Network nationally says: “Clinical research is part of the day-job for the NHS, but we need to make sure that we give hospitals and surgeries the right support to do it effectively. As Chief Operating Officer, Fiona Durban will really help us to achieve a research-active culture for the benefit of patients, and I'm delighted to welcome her to the leadership team.”