St George’s Hospital Charity appoints new Chair of Trustees

30 March 2026
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St George’s Hospital Charity is thrilled to announce the appointment of David J Meek as the new Chair of its Board of Trustees.

David brings a wealth of experience as a board chair, non-executive director, and chief executive across financial services, real estate, technology, and the not-for-profit sector.

He has a long track record of guiding organisations through change, strengthening governance, and supporting sustainable growth, having held senior roles at major international institutions including JP Morgan and Citi, alongside a broad portfolio of chair and board positions across both commercial and purpose-led organisations.

David has a deep commitment to the charity and public interest sectors, having served as Vice Chair and Interim CEO of Twycross Zoo, Chair of the Ethical Tea Partnership, and Deputy Chair of the British Liver Trust, where he chaired both Audit & Risk and Digital & Communications Committees. He is currently a Trustee and Grants Committee member at the Science Museum Foundation, supporting one of the UK’s leading science and innovation institutions.

As Chair, David will support the Charity’s strategic direction and ongoing delivery of its Healthier Together strategy, helping to strengthen partnerships with the NHS and local communities, and ensure strong governance and long-term financial sustainability.

Speaking about his appointment, David said:

“I am truly honoured to take on the role of Chair and to support St George’s Hospital Charity at such an exciting stage in its journey. I very much look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff and trustees as we build on the Charity’s strong foundations, and to helping shape the next chapter, delivering real and lasting impact for staff, patients, families, and the wider community.”

Katy Vaughan, CEO of St George’s Hospital Charity, said:

“We are delighted to welcome David as our new Chair. He brings exceptional experience, insight and a strong commitment to expanding the charity’s impact. With the launch of our Healthier Together strategy, aiming to raise £11 million over five years to improve health outcomes and experiences for patients, families and staff, we are focused on long-term growth, and I look forward to working closely with David as we build momentum and deepen the difference we make to our hospital and community.”

David succeeds Anna Walker, who has led the Board since 2016, bringing nationally recognised leadership and guiding the Charity through its transition to independence from the NHS. Under her leadership, the Charity doubled both its fundraising income and grant giving during the COVID-19 pandemic and launched its first ever major appeal to transform the children’s wards at St George’s.

Sir Mark Lowcock KCB, Chair of St George’s, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals and Health Group (gesh), said:

“I would like to thank Anna Walker for her outstanding leadership and commitment over many years, and for the significant contribution she has made to the Charity and our hospitals. It has been a privilege to work with her. I am delighted to welcome David as Chair and look forward to working closely with him to further strengthen the partnership between the Trust, the wider gesh group and the Charity, so that together we can deliver even greater improvements in patient experience and staff wellbeing.”

The Charity extends its sincere thanks to Anna for her outstanding contribution and leadership, we will be sharing more of her achievements and highlights in the coming weeks.

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