News

After two and a half years leading St George's Hospital Charity, Katy has had a significant impact on our growth and transformation. During her tenure, she has strengthened the Charity's strategic partnership with St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and City St George’s University, expanded grant-making programmes - including awarding a landmark £1.6m grant to transform children’s wards, increased income by over 20%, and helped to position the organisation for continued long-term success. 

Frances joins the Charity as an accomplished charity leader with more than 20 years' experience delivering strategic growth, organisational development and robust governance. Having previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) and ActionAid UK, she has built a reputation for leading impactful, values-driven organisations and creating cultures where people and purpose can thrive. 

David Meek, Chair of Trustees, St George's Hospital Charity, said: 

"On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to thank Katy for her strong leadership and commitment to St George's Hospital Charity over the past two and a half years. During this time our Charity has grown significantly, we’ve strengthened our partnership with St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and delivered meaningful impact for patients, families and staff. From addressing health inequalities to supporting transformational projects across the Trust, Katy has helped us build on our strong foundations as we look to the future. We thank Katy for her dedication and wish her every success in her new role.   

As we begin our next chapter I’m delighted to welcome Frances Longley as our Interim Chief Executive Officer. Frances brings a wealth of experience leading purpose-driven organisations, providing the expertise and leadership necessary to continue our ambitions until we appoint the permanent CEO early in 2027.My fellow Trustees and I look forward to working closely with Frances and the team as we continue to advance our mission and maximise our impact." 

Reflecting on Katy's contribution, Kate Slemeck, Chief Executive of St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: 

"Katy has been an inspirational leader and partner to St George's over the past two and a half years.  

Her commitment to improving the experiences and outcomes of the 1 million patients and their families that come into contact with the Trust every year, as well as supporting and championing the wellbeing of over 9,000 hardworking staff, has been transformational. Through her collaborative approach and strategic vision, she has driven significant growth in the Charity's impact and supported some truly impactful projects across the Trust. She leaves us with the charity at the heart of our hospitals and community services. On behalf of everyone at St George's, I would like to thank Katy for her leadership, dedication and wish her every success in her new role." 

Katy Vaughan said: 

"Leading St George's Hospital Charity has been a true privilege. I am incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together with our Trustees, colleagues, NHS partners and supporters. From investing in innovative projects that address health inequalities to delivering major capital developments, our collective impact has been remarkable. While it is difficult to say goodbye, and St George's will always hold a special place in my heart, I leave knowing the Charity is in a strong position for the future. I look forward to seeing it continue to grow, thrive and make a lasting difference." 

Frances Longley said: 

"I am delighted to be joining St George's Hospital Charity at such an exciting point in its journey. The Charity has established a strong reputation for supporting innovation, improving patient care and investing in the wellbeing of staff and communities. I look forward to working with colleagues, Trustees, supporters and partners to build on the excellent progress made under Katy's leadership and continue delivering lasting impact for patients and families across St George's and Queen Mary’s hospitals."