Over a career spanning more than 30 years, James has shown a deep commitment to improving clinical standards, supporting frontline nursing teams, and continuing to deliver compassionate, patient-centred nursing care, say his new bosses.
A registered adult and mental health nurse, his career in healthcare began at the age of 16 as a Healthcare Support Worker in care homes in his hometown of Peebles in the Scottish Borders. He undertook his nursing training in 2000 and has since worked across a wide range of healthcare settings, including elderly care, old age psychiatry, neurosurgery, substance misuse, prison healthcare, forensic mental health, and female personality disorders.
Throughout his career, James has held a number of senior leadership roles within the NHS and with the Care Quality Commission. Before joining NHS Highland in Argyll and Bute, he served as Executive Director of Nursing, Allied Health Professionals and Quality in Leicestershire.
As Associate Nurse Director, he will lead on professional nursing standards, workforce development, and quality improvement, working closely with the HSCP Senior Leadership Team (SLT).
Evan Beswick, Chief Officer of Argyll and Bute HSCP, said: "We are pleased to welcome James to the Senior Leadership Team. James has extensive experience, vision, and passion for supporting both staff and the people we serve. James will play a key role in continuing to deliver high-quality, person-centred nursing care across Argyll and Bute communities.”
James, who took over from Elizabeth Higgins after her retirement, added: “It is an honour to join Argyll and Bute HSCP as Associate Nurse Director. I look forward to meeting and working alongside our dedicated nursing teams, partners, and communities to continue delivering the highest standards of compassionate nursing care and services.”