Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust announces death of “well-loved” chief executive Paul Robinson

A hospital trust’s chief executive, who played a vital part in bringing the service out of special measures, has died.

Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Newark, Kings Mill and Mansfield Community hospitals, has announced the “devastating” death of its chief executive Paul Robinson, following a year-long battle with illness.

The trust’s acting chief executive, David Selwyn, said: “Everyone who knew Paul knew that he embodied everything that was great and good about our NHS and the colleagues he was so proud to work alongside. This was truly shocking and unexpected news to receive about a great colleague who was at the heart of everything good that Sherwood was striving to achieve.

“Paul was fiercely passionate about the work of the NHS and had been making firm plans to return to the role he loved over the coming weeks.

“He will be missed by all who knew him and our thoughts remain with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Paul had worked in the NHS for more than 30 years and had been a “well-loved” member of the trust team since he joined in May 2015 as director of finance.

During his time at the trust he was a significant force behind helping it exit special measures and make further progress since.

In 2021, he took over the chief executive role, initially in an acting capacity, before being permanently appointed to the role in March 2022 — a position he held proudly ever since.

The trust is set to release further details, including plans to remember Paul, at a later date.