A new executive managing director will join Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital from next week.

Michelle Arrowsmith will take on the top job from Monday, January 19, with Chris Bown – who has been in the role in an interim capacity since June last year – departing.

Ms Arrowsmith has more than 30 years of leadership experience, a clinical background as a dietitian and senior strategic and operational management roles with the NHS in England, and with healthcare organisations in New Zealand and Australia.

Her arrival comes at a challenging time for the QEH.

As well as helping to handle the ongoing rebuild programme, she will also have to deal with the hospital being recently ranked the worst in the country.

Meanwhile, general surgery is now operating under the clinical leadership of surgeons from the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals after a damning review found there has been serious lapses in care for patients.

At least one person died an avoidable death due to this.

Writing for the Lynn News in his final column, Mr Bown said: “I’ve been reflecting on my time at the QEH in Lynn – the last few months haven’t always been easy.

“We’ve faced real pressure, uncertainty and some tough moments and yet, time and again, I’ve seen professionalism, compassion and teamwork shine through across all areas of the hospital.

“Our teams have supported one another, stayed focused on patients, and kept going when things were hard.”

On Ms Arrowsmith’s arrival, Mr Bown added: “I know Michelle will be a great asset to the QEH team and I’m excited to see to progress this great hospital makes in 2026.”