Hardev heads for the Met
Hardev Virdee, our group chief finance officer and deputy group chief executive, will be leaving later this year for a major leadership role with the Metropolitan Police.
After seven years at Barts Health - and 30 in the NHS - he will take up a new post as chief of strategy and investment for the country’s biggest police force.
The appointment comes as Hardev is poised to become the next president of his professional trade body, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy.
He will take up his presidential duties next month - having served as a vice-president for the last two years - and no date is yet set for the move to the Met.
Hardev joined the trust in November 2019, when we were still in financial special measures, and was instrumental in putting our finances on a sustainable footing for the long-term. This included steadily reducing our deficit and delivering a financial recovery plan that balanced the books in 2025/6.
However his contribution as a leader and role model goes far wider, as reflected in his responsibility for estates and facilities, procurement and performance too. He was named Finance Director of the Year in 2023 by fellow finance managers in healthcare for his efforts promoting training and development opportunities for staff and unemployed young people.
Shane DeGaris, group chief executive, said: “Hardev personifies the “tough but fair” approach that characterises the best compassionate and inclusive leaders. He combines financial rigour and economic efficiency with a keen sense of the importance of maintaining clinical quality and embracing diversity.
“We will miss his intellect, wisdom and good humour, but wish him well for the future, safe in the knowledge that he leaves a legacy on which we can continue to build, on our journey towards excellence.”
Hardev came to us from Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust but hails from Birmingham, and references these roots as responsible for cementing his passion for making a difference.
He said: “It has been a thrilling journey at Barts Health with many challenges - working with great colleagues whilst addressing the health needs of our population within constrained resources.
“Having helped the Trust exit financial special measures and navigate the pandemic I am pleased we are entering a chapter of sustainability. I know the group will continue to grow and deliver against a compelling vision of excellence for the future.
“I am so pleased to have played a part in this journey, and thank you all for the support you have given.”
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