Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust has announced two key senior appointments to its executive team, following formal recruitment processes.
Beth Swanson has been appointed as the Trust’s substantive Chief Nurse, and Sheena Fish takes on the role of Chief Operating Officer.
The new appointments come at an important time for Gateshead Health as the Trust continues to build on its strong foundations, driving forward improvements in patient care, workforce support, and service delivery across local communities.
Beth Swanson, who has served as Interim Chief Nurse at the Trust since October 2025, takes on the permanent role with more than 30 years of NHS nursing experience. Prior to joining Gateshead Health, Beth was Deputy Group Chief Nurse for the Tees Trusts and Director of Nursing at North Tees & Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. Throughout her career, she has led major advancements in patient safety and clinical quality and has contributed to national healthcare policy as Chair and Nurse Advisor for the National Audit of Dementia.
“I am delighted to be appointed as the substantive Chief Nurse at Gateshead Health. Having served as Interim Chief Nurse over the last few months, I have seen first-hand the dedication, compassion and clinical excellence of our nursing, midwifery, and allied health professional teams.
“My priority will be to continue championing the professional voice of our frontline staff, ensuring they feel supported and empowered to deliver safe, high-quality and dignified care. Gateshead Health is a supportive, values-driven organisation, and I look forward to working alongside colleagues to further build our workforce resilience and elevate patient safety across all our services.”
Beth Swanson, Chief Nurse of Gateshead Health
Sheena Fish joins the Trust as Chief Operating Officer, bringing a proven track record of operational leadership within the North East healthcare landscape. She most recently served as a Divisional Director at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, where she successfully managed complex operational structures, including acute medical services, with a clear focus on meeting performance standards and enhancing patient pathways.
“Taking on the role of Chief Operating Officer at Gateshead Health is an exciting prospect. Having worked within the region’s healthcare system for many years, I recognise the Trust’s commitment to its local communities and its forward-thinking approach to integrated care.
“While the wider NHS continues to face significant operational pressures, I look forward to collaborating with colleagues across the organisation and our regional partners to deliver efficient, high-performing services that make a real, positive difference to our patients’ experience.”
Sheena Fish
“It is a privilege to welcome Beth and Sheena into their executive roles.
“Having worked closely with our teams over recent months, I know how much our staff value clear, stable, and compassionate leadership. Beth’s clinical dedication and Sheena’s operational expertise are exactly what we need to build on our progress, from expanding our community diagnostic services to strengthening neighbourhood healthcare.
“We have a brilliant workforce and clear priorities ahead. I look forward to working closely with Beth and Sheena and the rest of the Board to deliver the highest possible standard of care for the communities we serve.”
Dr Sean Fenwick, Chief Executive of Gateshead Health
The appointments follow open, competitive recruitment processes undertaken in line with NHS governance arrangements, involving staff, governors and Board colleagues. Beth’s appointment is effective immediately, with Sheena expected to join Gateshead Health in autumn 2026.