THE chief executive of the trust which runs Basingstoke hospital has been named as one of the best in the country.

Health Service Journal has chosen Mary Edwards, pictured right, who runs Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, as one of England’s top 50 health service chiefs.

She made the shortlist after a panel of judges considered five areas – impact, communication, patient focus, engagement and mentorship – to identify the best leaders.

HSJ editor Alastair McLellan said: “There is perhaps no better time to present our first celebration of those doing an exceptional job of steering these organisations.

“It is a mission which surely at times appears thankless – political sensitivities abound, as does the pressing target to deliver outstanding care at reduced cost.”

Mrs Edwards has been in her current position for more than 11 years.

Her entry in the list of top chief executives reads: “Mary is said to manage the trust very well. Staff relate to her and she is engaged with patients.

“Mary is not seen as making a big song and dance about her successes, but instead as simply getting on with the job of running a very good hospital.”

Mrs Edwards said: “I am proud and delighted to have been named among a list of fellow NHS chief executives. We are all trying to achieve the same goal which is providing excellent service for our communities.

“I am helped enormously by the amazing people around me and our 5,000 staff who work tirelessly every day to do their best for our patients. This recognition is for them as much as for me.”