North East London Integrated Care Board Chief Executive, Zina Etheridge, has announced today (16 July) her decision to step down after more than three years in the role.
Zina wrote to staff and stakeholders to share the news, emphasising her pride in the achievements of her team and its work to tackle health inequalities and more effective system working since it was established in 2022.
She said: “After a great deal of thought, I have decided to leave the ICB. North east London is a great place, full of amazing people doing amazing things. I am confident that the ICB has a great opportunity ahead as it pivots to focus more extensively on its role in strategic commissioning
“Across NEL the opportunities to really improve the population’s health and wellbeing through the shift to neighbourhood working are really exciting. However I have reached the difficult conclusion that it is better for someone else to take this forward.
“I have hugely enjoyed working with our staff and partners across north east London, despite the many challenges we have been through together, and am proud of what we have achieved together.”
Zina’s leaving date is not yet confirmed and she pledged to continue to steer the ICB team through the organisational changes taking place in coming months. Dame Marie Gabriel, who will remain as Chair of NEL Integrated Care System, will now work with NHS England to take forward the process of appointing a new Chief Executive.
Dame Marie Gabriel said:
“She has also provided a strong voice for our community at London and national level, ensuring the work we are delivering with our partners is recognised at the highest levels.
“I wish her well in her future endeavours and thank her for all she has done for the NHS and for our communities in north east London and beyond.”
Zina joined NEL ICS in February 2022 from the London Borough of Haringey where she was Chief Executive from February 2017, and she previously held senior roles in a number of government departments at a national and regional level.
