Last Updated on 25/02/2020 by steveperry
The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has appointed Dr Simon Festing to the role of Chief Executive Officer.
A qualified Doctor of Medicine who practised as a hospital doctor in his earlier career, Dr Festing joins the BHTA from the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOPA) where, as CEO, he steered the organisation as it supported its 1,700 strong membership.
Bringing a wealth of experience to BHTA, Dr Festing has held senior roles in a number of prestigious third sector organisations, including the British Heart Foundation, as well as in government departments where he was instrumental in establishing policy changes.
Dr Festing replaces former NRS Healthcare Sales Director, Andrew Stevenson, who has been the BHTA’s interim Director General since November 2018.
In his new role, Dr Festing will spearhead a programme of modernising the BHTA, including restructuring the association to enable it to meet the mounting challenges facing its varied membership.
The decision to supersede the former title of Director General to Chief Executive Officer will help align the BHTA with modern management structures, with the new title being more pertinent in today’s climate.
Alastair Maxwell, BHTA Chairman, commented: “We are delighted to have Simon join the BHTA during this pivotal time in the healthcare industry.
“His impressive management and leadership skills, combined with his medical background and previous roles in prominent associations and at government-level, will help lead the BHTA as we continue to promote the interests of our member companies during a period of unprecedented change in the sector.”
Dr Simon Festing, CEO of the BHTA, commented: “This is a fantastic role and I am excited to become involved in an area that plays such a crucial role in improving people’s lives.
“I look forward to meeting with our diverse membership to learn more about the important work that they do and discover what we can do to support their activities, alongside championing the importance of the industry to the public, government and all of society.”
Dr Festing will join the BHTA on the 2nd March 2020
For additional comment, contact Andrew Stevenson on 07720 936770
Notes for editors:
About the British Healthcare Trades Association
BHTA (founded in 1917) is a trade association with member businesses in healthcare and assistive technology, all of whom commit to the BHTA Code of Practice, the only one in this industry to be approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute. BHTA member companies operate to higher standards of customer protection than the law requires.
Its membership comprises both large and small businesses across manufacturing, distribution, retail and specialist service provision.
The products they make and supply range from wheelchairs and scooters, stairlifts, seating and positioning products, patient support surfaces, equipment for children, electronic communication devices, independent living products, stoma and continence products, and first aid equipment, through to dispensing of prescriptions, and community equipment, wheelchair, prosthetics, and orthotics services.
Organised in one or more of 12 sections, this structure provides a platform for all members to have an effective voice within BHTA and, through the Association, to influence the development of healthcare policies in the UK.
Published: 29th November 2019
