Dr Bernard Brett appointed as substantive Medical Director

Consultant Gastroenterologist Dr Bernard Brett has taken up the substantive role of Medical Director following a competitive recruitment process.

Prof Lesley Dwyer, Chief Executive, said: “Bernard is a highly respected clinician, medical manager and leader, with great experience across the region and in the Norfolk and Waveney system.  I am really pleased to welcome him into this permanent role and many of you will know Bernard and will have worked with him both at NNUH and at the James Paget University Hospital.”

“Alongside the appointment of our Chief Nurse Rachael Cocker, Bernard’s appointment will bring stability to our Executive Team and help us to provide the best support to medical colleagues and the wider Trust.”

Bernard said: “I am delighted and honoured to be taking up this important role and I am looking forward to working with our staff and teams to further improve the quality of care for patients and equally improve the experience for our staff.  Providing a strong patient-focused clinical voice across the organisation is important to me, alongside support for our entire workforce, their personal and professional development alongside significantly enhancing our research activities. We have some challenging times ahead, but we have a very positive, bright future thanks to the dedication of our skilled workforce, our unique position in the healthcare system and strong and strengthening collaboration with our research and training partners on the Norwich Research Park and within the ICB. We all need to work to develop a supportive, caring environment for our patients and staff and a positive curious approach, focussed on empowering innovation and the improvement of our services.”

Bernard was appointed as Interim Medical Director in September 2023. He is a gastroenterologist and an experienced medical manager, currently holding the position of Chair of the East of England Clinical Senate and previously having held a variety of posts including Medical Director at the James Paget University Hospital, Responsible Officer, Appraisal Lead and Divisional Director.