UPDATE: Carol McInnes, the Director of Planning and Transformation at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), has just been awarded the title of ‘Finance Champion of the Year’ at the prestigious Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) Awards. This recognition highlights her exceptional contributions to financial recovery and transformation efforts at SaTH, which oversees the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital in Telford.
Since taking on her role in November 2024, McInnes has played a pivotal role in driving financial improvements at the trust. Under her leadership, SaTH has made significant strides, achieving £24.9 million in efficiency savings this year alone. The organization is on track to meet its ambitious target of £41.4 million for the fiscal year 2025/26.
The HFMA judges praised McInnes for her “skill and humility” in engaging staff in critical recovery efforts, calling her a “role model” who is fostering optimism for the future. Her work has not only benefited her organization but has also positioned SaTH as a resource for other NHS providers looking to enhance their financial strategies.
In addition to McInnes’s accolade, SaTH’s Deputy Chief Nurse, Kara Blackwell, received high commendation in the ‘Working with Finance – Clinician of the Year’ category. This recognition underscores the collaborative spirit within SaTH as they navigate the complexities of healthcare finance.
In a statement, McInnes expressed gratitude, saying, “This award is recognition for the whole team and all that it has achieved over the last few years. SaTH is heading in the right direction, and it’s great to see this progress being showcased on a national stage.”
Adam Winstanley, Acting Director of Finance at SaTH, echoed her sentiments, stating, “I’m delighted that Carol has been recognized with a national award for her hard work and dedication – it is a huge achievement which is thoroughly deserved.” He emphasized the trust’s commitment to balancing financial stability while delivering top-notch care to patients.
This award not only celebrates individual excellence but also highlights the collective efforts of SaTH’s staff in improving healthcare delivery and efficiency. As McInnes and her team continue to implement innovative solutions, the future looks promising for the trust and the communities it serves.
Stay tuned for further updates as SaTH continues its journey toward financial and operational excellence, with McInnes leading the charge.
