Fiona Wise spent five years in charge at Northwick Park, Central Middlesex and St Mark’s hospitals

The chief executive of the trust which runs Brent’s hospitals is stepping down five years after she took up the position.

Fiona Wise has undergone major medical treatment over the last nine months and although she has recovered, this has caused her to rethink her future.

Ms Wise said: “I am relatively close to retirement, after more than 38 years in the NHS, and feel this is the right time to step down.

“As the organisation moves forward with plans to merge with Ealing Hospital, I feel it is important to have a new leader who is able to commit to five years at the helm, something I do not wish to do at present.”

The North West London Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs Northwick Park, Central Middlesex and St Mark’s hospitals, will now be run by interim chief executive Peter Coles.

Ms Wise said: “Although I would love to return, even for a few months, I think this would be disruptive for the organisation. However, I intend to pursue opportunities elsewhere in the NHS and the public sector, building on my years of experience.”

Tony Caplin, trust chairman, said it had been an honour to work alongside Ms Wise, who has demonstrated true dedication and commitment.

He said: “Fiona will be greatly missed. Delivering the best care for patients has always been her number one priority and I am sure it will continue to be so in whatever Fiona chooses to do next.

“Having known Fiona for almost a decade, I know this decision would not have been taken lightly, but it is one I respect and understand.

“We have a lot to be proud of at this Trust and this is a reflection of Fiona’s leadership over the last five years. “Our job now is to build on this as we move forward and develop plans to merge with Ealing Hospital NHS Trust.”