Amanda Pritchard is new chief exec of Guy’s and St Thomas'

Amanda has been chief operating officer at the trust since April 2012, and acting chief executive since Sir Ron Kerr's departure in October 2015.

Amanda's appointment was approved by a special meeting of the Council of Governors on Monday 18 January.

"I am delighted to announce that Amanda has accepted the position of chief executive," said Sir Hugh Taylor, chairman of the trust.

"This follows a very thorough search and consideration of a strong field of potential candidates.

"I am confident that Amanda will bring the talent, energy and vision needed to ensure that our already very successful organisation is able to respond effectively to the significant challenges facing the NHS and public sector at this time.

"Guy's and St Thomas' has a longstanding reputation for excellence and innovation, both in the UK and internationally, and with Amanda's leadership we will continue to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care, underpinned by our commitment to teaching and research.

"In our choice of Amanda, it is exciting to have been able to appoint one of a new generation of talented leaders. I am sure that this will benefit both Guy's and St Thomas' and the wider NHS in the years ahead."

Amanda Pritchard said: "I am absolutely delighted to lead one of the UK's leading healthcare organisations.

"While Guy's and St Thomas' has a long and proud history, we must focus on the future. The challenges we face are significant, but so too are the opportunities, particularly if we embrace new technology and scientific advances.

"We need to deliver the best possible care to our patients right now, whilst also working hard to deliver the transformation needed to sustain our services and to take full advantage of the opportunities that are on the horizon if we grasp them.

"This will require strong partnership working with our colleagues in King's Health Partners, across south London and beyond.

"We know that our staff have the talent and ambition to deliver, and my role, with the support of my executive colleagues and the wider management team, will be to help them to deliver the very best for our patients now and in the future."