End of an era as South Tyneside NHS finance chief retires

Mike Robson, South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust’s long-serving finance chief, has retired – but he’s still planning to keep himself busy through volunteering work.

Mr Robson said: “The trust’s sense of community has always been special and I will miss the people with whom I work.

“Our trust is comparatively small, but I’m proud to say it’s always punched above its weight in ensuring local people receive local services of the highest quality despite, at times, challenging circumstances.”

Mr Robson’s NHS career spans more than 30 years. It began after he trained and qualified as an accountant with Tyne and Wear County Council.

He worked for North Tyneside Health Authority and the Regional Health Authority before moving in 1990 to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary, where he became director of finance and deputy chief executive in 1992.

He joined South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust as executive director of finance and deputy chief executive in 1998.

Chief executive Steve Williamson said: “Mike has been an outstanding finance director and deputy chief executive, guiding and supporting the trust through many changes and challenges, and he is well-respected by colleagues and stakeholders across the North East.”

Mr Robson, who lives in Gateshead, is looking forward in retirement to devoting more time to his role as chairman of St Oswald’s Hospice in Newcastle.

Helen Patterson, formerly deputy director of finance, has taken over from Mr Robson as executive director of finance.