RCN Northern Ireland Director appointed to new post in public health

Published: 05 March 2009

Mary Hinds, Director of the RCN Northern Ireland, is leaving the Royal College of Nursing to take up the position of Director of Nursing and Allied Health Professionals (designate) at the new Regional Agency for Public Health and Social Well-being in Northern Ireland. From 01 April 2009, this body will drive the public health agenda in Northern Ireland, with a particular emphasis upon tackling health inequalities. The role also encompasses health improvement, professional leadership and the commissioning of health and social care services.

Mary Hinds joined the RCN in January 2006 from her previous position as Director of Nursing at the Mater Hospital in Belfast. During her time as Director of the RCN in Northern Ireland, Mary has raised the profile and influence of the organisation, steering nursing through a difficult and complex series of health and social care service reforms with great commitment, judgment and energy. She has also contributed significantly to the wider UK work of the RCN.

Mary said:

“I am pleased and honoured to have been appointed to this new and exciting post but I will greatly miss my colleagues and friends within the RCN. I will be particularly sorry to say goodbye to the staff of the RCN in Northern Ireland, who work ceaselessly and skilfully to support the work of RCN members and to extend the influence of nurses and nursing in Northern Ireland. I look forward to working in partnership with the RCN in my new role and to continuing to serve nursing, and the patients, clients and communities we serve.”

RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter said:

“Mary has been an exceptional leader and advocate of the nursing profession during her time at the RCN. She will be missed by members, staff and colleagues alike, but we know that she will be a huge credit to the campaign for better public health in Northern Ireland. We all wish Mary the best of luck in her new role”.

The recruitment process to find a new Director of RCN Northern Ireland will start immediately, but Mary’s leaving date has yet to be finalised.