A NEW chief executive for Ipswich Hospital has been announced the Evening Star can reveal today. Andrew Reed, currently chief executive of the once beleaguered Bedford Hospital NHS Trust, has been appointed to the role following an extensive interview process and is expected to take over the reins in the summer.

A NEW chief executive for Ipswich Hospital has been announced the Evening Star can reveal today.

Andrew Reed, currently chief executive of the once beleaguered Bedford Hospital NHS Trust, has been appointed to the role following an extensive interview process and is expected to take over the reins in the summer.

Mr Reed joined Bedford as chief executive in the wake of the overflowing mortuary scandal, which saw bodies left on the hospital chapel's floor.

In his time there he has turned the ailing hospital around, taking it from a zero star to a three star trust.

He was featured on the BBC's Panorama programme on Sunday which showed his innovative approach to understanding staff at all levels of the hospital. At least once a year he takes on the job of another member of staff for the day, be it a cleaner or a porter.

Mr Reed, 47, said: "I'm really excited about coming to Ipswich. The hospital is renowned for clinical excellence and has good performance standards which I am sure we can develop to the highest level."

Mr Reed, a father of three, began his career in the NHS 22 years ago as a management trainee and has been chief executive of Bedford Hospital for almost four years.

Before taking up this role he was chief executive of the Bedfordshire Health Authority.

His NHS career includes managing mental health services and reflects strong interests in involving clinicians in management and new models of commissioning. It is likely that he will take up his new role in the summer.

Mr Reed joins the 800-bed hospital at a crucial point in its history.

The last 12 months have been difficult at times, with mounting debts and bed shortages among the problems facing staff, but the hospital is now looking forward and is embarking on its biggest building programme for 30 years.

Work on the new £26m Garrett Anderson Centre is due to begin this autumn. It will include a new A&E department, a critical care centre, a day surgery site and new operating theatres.

The current acting chief executive, Chris Dooley, will continue in the post until Mr Reed joins the hospital. He will then return to his role as deputy chief executive and director of finance and performance.

He has been in the acting role since former chief executive Paul Forden was seconded to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital in June 2004. Mr Forden's role in Norwich was made permanent in October.

Christine Smart, chairman of the Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust, said: "I am delighted that Andrew is joining us. He has an outstanding record of achievement, including leading Bedford Hospital to three star status and developing strong partnerships with social care and primary care colleagues.

"We are indebted to Chris Dooley for the tremendous job he has done and will continue to do for us."