In common with much of the NHS across the UK we have current challenges due to high levels of patient demand. Strong executive leadership is vital to carry us through in this next phase of our development.

The task is a big one and our priorities are many. Among them are these:

• A review of our clinical services is just getting underway. The announcement has already generated a lot of concern across communities in the Borders. It is an anxious time for staff, too. But we must develop new ways of working in and from our hospitals in order to improve patient care. Over the coming months we have committed to widespread consultation and dialogue with the public at all levels from small groups to local councils.
• April 1^st saw the formal start of health and social care integration under new legislation. We have a good track record of joint working with Scottish Borders Council and the voluntary and third sectors. Now we have to make a huge step change in delivering joint care. A new Integration Joint Board of Council and Health Board, with partners from other sectors, will plan and commission health and social care services that support people in ways that are effective and seamless and enable people to live healthier lives at home or in homely settings.
• Promoting excellence in organisational behaviour is critical. Some good work has been done already but we need to embed positive cultures throughout the organisation at all levels, empowering our leaders and our staff to deliver the best for patients.
• Safe services and high quality services are paramount. And the challenge of meeting these absolute priorities has to be met within the constraints of tightening budgets. The Board`s ongoing efficiency programme has to go on delivering if we are to go on meeting the bottom line.

Our new Chief Executive, working alongside the executive team, will need to be upfront in leading and facilitating these, and other priority areas of work. And, in addition, to make a contribution nationally and regionally as part of the NHS Scotland team of Chief Executives.

I do want to encourage all those who feel they have the necessary experience and competency, as well as a strong commitment to the vision and values of Borders NHS, to apply for the post of our Chief Executive.

The opportunity to contribute to the health and wellbeing of Scottish Borders people will be rewarded in many ways.

You will work as part of a supportive Board who believe excellence starts at the top of the organisation and who are committed to high standards of governance.

You will work alongside a loyal workforce and with colleagues from a single unitary local authority who share the vision for better care for public and patients through integration of services.

And you will be working in Scottish Borders, one of the most attractive parts of the UK; scenic, uncongested; noted for the excellence of its schools and recreational opportunities.

I wish you well in your application.

John Raine
Chairman