Kerry, Chief Executive

I have been Chief Executive of St Gemma’s since 2010. It’s a job I love for a Hospice that means a huge amount to me, both personally and professionally.

I work with compassionate, dedicated and professional people as part of a Hospice and a city that is always trying to make care better for the people of Leeds. The most important part of my role is safeguarding and building on the amazing work started by the Sisters of the Cross and Passion 40 years ago, as we care for local people when they need us most.

I am in awe of our incredible community who raise most of the funds for St Gemma’s care every year. I’m also really proud of leading the St Gemma’s team to achieve an Outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission and to become the first ever University Teaching Hospice.

My lovely Dad received care from St Gemma’s in 2013. He was diagnosed with lung cancer and died only 7 weeks later. St Gemma’s staff cared for him at home and on the Moors Ward. From the moment he was admitted to the ward my Dad changed from being a sick man to being Les again; he recovered his sense of self and his dignity, he once again became a husband, father, grandfather and friend.

That has been really important to us as a family as we have looked back at Dad’s life and death. We are so grateful too for the ongoing support from St Gemma’s, helping family members through bereavement and providing opportunities for us to pause and remember.

Join the St Gemma’s Hospice team. See our current vacancies at www.st-gemma.co.uk/vacancies