Appointment of New Chief Executive for Aqua

Following a competitive recruitment process, we are delighted to announce that Dr Susy Cook has been appointed as Aqua’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Susy, who is currently Group Chief People Officer at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust and South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, started her career as a biochemist and researcher in 1997. She is a dedicated and innovative Executive and Board member and brings a wealth of experience across 25 years in the NHS and academia in varying roles from manager, Director, coach, leadership and organisational development lead, and improver.

With a deep commitment to healthcare excellence and a track record of effective leadership in the NHS, Susy joins as CEO in further developing a shared sense of purpose, and motivation for improvement and growth during an exciting time of change for the NHS.

On her appointment, Dr Susy Cook said:

“I am thrilled to be joining Aqua as CEO and continue my commitment to continuous improvement. I look forward to bringing the experience I have gained in other contexts to this exciting and important organisation. I am delighted that Sue will be staying on as Aqua’s Chair and look forward to working together with her and the team to continue to drive the success of the organisation.”

Phil Wadeson, Acting Chair of Aqua’s Board, added:

“We are delighted to have appointed Dr Susy Cook as our new Chief Executive Officer. Susy brings a wealth of improvement, operational and education experience. On behalf of the Board, we look forward to working alongside her in delivering our new strategy. Susy is committed to continuing to deliver our values-based proposition in support of Health and Care organisations.”

As previously shared, current CEO, Sue Holden will be transitioning to the role of Chair, once Susy has started in post in September.