Hospice welcome John Burns as Interim Chief Executive

The Ayrshire Hospice can announce the appointment of John G Burns OBE as Interim Chief Executive as Tracy Flynn has made the decision to move on from the role to pursue a new challenge.

John joins the Hospice after working in NHS Scotland for over 40 years and was most recently NHS Scotland Chief Operating Officer, a post he was seconded to in 2021. Prior to this role, he was Chief Executive of NHS Ayrshire and Arran.

Tracy took up position of Ayrshire Hospice Chief Executive in Spring 2022 and oversee the Capital Build Project – a project in excess of £18 million pounds that transformed our Hospice home.

Tom Steele, Chair of the Ayrshire Hospice Board, said: “On a personal level, and on behalf of the Ayrshire Hospice Board, I would like to thank Tracy for her leadership and commitment to the Ayrshire Hospice over the last four and a half years as Director of Patient and Family Services and subsequently as Chief Executive. Tracy has made a significant impact on the Hospice during a period of considerable change and historic importance. While driving the Capital Build Project, her leadership helped ensure continuity of care and services throughout the decant from Racecourse Road, the successful return to our outstanding new Hospice home, and the transition into the important period following completion of the Capital Build Project.

“Beyond this, Tracy has played an influential role within the wider hospice sector in Scotland, working alongside colleagues across the Scotland’s Hospices collective to advocate for more sustainable funding and recognition of hospice care at a national level. She has also championed innovation and long-term sustainability within our own organisation, including the establishment of Gargowan as a means of developing new opportunities to support the Hospice’s future.

“Throughout this time, her focus has remained firmly on delivering the highest standards of care and support for the people and families who rely on us. The Board is grateful for Tracy’s dedication and wishes her every success and happiness in the future.”

John adds: “I am delighted to be joining the Ayrshire Hospice team as Interim Chief Executive. It has been wonderful to meet many colleagues so far. In the days and weeks ahead I will look forward to meeting as many colleagues as possible and get to know the work that you do. I look forward to working with you in the weeks and months ahead.”

Read John’s bio here