The appointment of the first independent Chair of the Dorset Integrated Care System (ICS) has been made.
Jenni Douglas-Todd, who is currently Deputy Chair and Senior Independent Director with University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, and a former chief executive of Hampshire Police Authority and the office of the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner, is taking up the new role.
The Dorset ICS, known as ‘Our Dorset’ is a partnership of two new local councils, NHS services and the community and voluntary sector, all working together to address local health, wellbeing, quality and financial challenges across the county. Its vision is that everyone will start, live and age well and die with dignity, no matter where they live or what their circumstances are.
Dr Forbes Watson, who chaired the appointment on behalf of the partners, said: “After a national recruitment exercise which saw a very strong field of candidates put themselves forward for this important role, I’m delighted that Jenni Douglas-Todd, who impressed all who met her, has been appointed as the new Dorset ICS Chair.
“I’d like to thank all of the organisations who supported the process and look forward to our continued working together for the benefit of our Dorset.”
Graham Farrant, Chief Executive of BCP Council and member of the recruitment panel, said: “Jenni will be a great appointment, bringing energy and appropriate challenge into the system. Her extensive experience across a range of public sector organisations brings a breadth of understanding of the approach that we need to deliver on our commitment to create vibrant communities across the BCP area, where everyone plays an active role, and I’m delighted to have her on board with Our Dorset.”
Matt Prosser, Chief Executive for Dorset Council said: “I am delighted that Jenni Douglas-Todd has been appointed, having been impressed with her responses and clear leadership in the stakeholder panel interview event. It is critical that our Integrated Care System is highly effective for the benefit of residents of Dorset – with all partners from across NHS services and councils working together with increasing efficiency and effectiveness. Having an independent Chair with the skills of Jenni will drive forward this work at pace for the benefit of all Dorset residents.”
Following her appointment, Jenni Douglas-Todd, said: “I am so pleased to be appointed to this important and exciting role. It is clear that the public and the organisations who make up the ‘Our Dorset’ partnership have a shared commitment to provide good health, care and well-being for all of Dorset’s communities.
“I therefore look forward to leading strong collaborative working across Dorset, which both meets the challenges and opportunities facing us all, and bring these ambitions to fruition by working together for the people we serve.”
After beginning her career in the probation service, Jenni joined the civil service, at the Home Office, where she spent four years before becoming director of policy and research for the Independent Police Complaints Commission. In the latter role she was responsible for establishing governance of the new police complaints system.
In 2012, Jenni became Chief Executive and monitoring officer for the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner, where she led the development of the office’s vision, mission, values and organisational strategy.
She took on the role of investigating committee chair for the General Dental Council in 2014. She is also a member of the Judicial Conduct Investigating Office, a public appointment. Jenni holds a non-executive portfolio which includes the English Cricket Board, Hampshire Cricket Board and is a Trustee with NACRO (a social justice charity).
