Trust Announces New Chair

Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust has appointed Oke Eleazu as the new Trust Chair, he will be taking up the role on 1 April 2025.

Oke is a local businessman who has held several senior positions in both an Executive and Non-Executive capacity in a number of industries. Oke is also an experienced entrepreneur, and recently established a social enterprise with the purpose of improving diversity, equity and inclusion in business. Oke’s other passion is on improving customer experience and this has been his focus for most of his career.

On his appointment, Oke said, “I’m looking forward to taking up the role of Chair and the opportunity to actively contribute and give back to my local hospital and community. The Trust already has a great reputation, and I really want to help improve health outcomes, tackle inequalities and make the experience better for those accessing it.”

Oke will replace Graham Sims, who is one of the Trust’s longest serving Chairs, dedicating nearly 10 years to the role. Graham joined the Trust in 2015 when it was in special measures and led a turnaround to being rated Outstanding by the CQC in 2017. Last year the Trust's Maternity department was rated ‘Good’, bucking the CQC's current national trend, as one of only six trusts with this high rating. His focus on good governance, patients and staff has been a stand-out achievement throughout his time in the Trust.

Graham Sims, Chair of RBFT, said, “I wish Oke all the best as he takes on this pivotal role as the new Chair and every success. It has been an absolute privilege and an honour to be Royal Berkshire’s Chair for the last 10 years and I have been incredibly proud to work alongside fantastic staff who deliver outstanding patient care every day.”

Steve McManus, Chief Executive, said, “I am very pleased to welcome Oke to the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust family and look forward to working closely with him. Oke brings a wealth of experience and expertise, that will be of huge benefit to the Trust. I would also like to thank Graham for his outstanding commitment and contributions to our Trust. His guidance and leadership has transformed the Trust over the last 10 years.”