NHS Shetland appoints new Director of People and Culture and Deputy Chief Executive

George will join NHS Shetland on Monday 23 November 2026, following a comprehensive recruitment and selection process.

With more than 30 years' experience in human resources, George began her career in the private outdoor retail sector before moving into the public sector in 2000. Since then, she has held a number of senior leadership roles across the police service, local government and the NHS.

For the past 20 years, George has lived and worked in rural North Wales, where she also volunteered with the National Coastwatch Institution. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and holds a postgraduate qualification in Strategic Workforce Planning in Health Care. George is also a trained psychometric tester, mediator and coach.

George is no stranger to island and rural communities, as a regular visitor to Shetland over the last 11 years, she is looking forward to joining the organisation and working with colleagues, service users, partners and the wider community to support the delivery of high-quality care and services across the islands.

Speaking about her appointment, George said: "I am delighted to be joining NHS Shetland as Director of People and Culture and Deputy Chief Executive. Having visited Shetland regularly, I have developed a real appreciation for the communities and the unique opportunities and challenges of delivering healthcare in a remote setting. I am looking forward to working with colleagues, service users and partners across Shetland and beyond to build on the excellent work already taking place and to continue improving the quality of care and services for local people. This is an exciting opportunity, and I can't wait to become part NHS Shetland and the wider community.”

George will succeed Lorraine Hall, who will retire at the end of November after 23 years of dedicated service at NHS Shetland, including 16 years as a member of the Board.