A Bermudian with decades of experience in healthcare has been appointed the next chief executive of the Bermuda Hospitals Board.

R. Scott Pearman, the deputy chief executive, will take the helm after Michael Richmond steps down at the end of the year and the close of his contract.

Mr Pearman, who joined the BHB in 1996 as employee labour relations manager, was appointed director of human resources in 2000 and then vice-president of physician relations in December 2006.

After a promotion to chief of business development in 2010, Mr Pearman was appointed as chief operating officer at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital the following year.

In February 2017, his COO role was expanded to include the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute.

Mr Pearman was appointed deputy chief executive in 2020.

Kim Wilson, the health minister, welcomed the appointment of “someone with deep experience of Bermuda’s healthcare challenges”.

“Mr Pearman’s many years at BHB along with his growth through continuous learning and development opportunities have prepared him well to take the helm of BHB.”

She congratulated Mr Pearman and said that she looked forward to “the continued improvement of BHB services in partnership with government and other community partners and individuals”.

Mr Pearman has a bachelor of arts in economics from the University of Rhode Island, a master of labour relations and human resources from Michigan State University, a master of business administration from Queen’s University, and a professional human resources certification from the Society of Human Resources Management.

Matthew Pifer, the chairman of the BHB board, thanked Dr Richmond for “six years of service to the BHB and the people of Bermuda, first as chief of staff and then chief executive officer”.

“He was at the forefront of BHB’s Covid pandemic response, oversaw a successful electronic medical record implementation and developed a new strategic plan that focused the organisation on quality and continuous improvement.”

He added: “We all wish him the very best as he returns home to the UK.”

Mr Pifer said that the new chief executive was taking on a “critical” leading role for the island’s hospitals.

“He has shown great leadership in the role of deputy CEO, exemplified by the implementation of the integrated healthcare programme.

“Mr Pearman’s appointment following a competitive recruitment process highlights the success of the executive development process at BHB.

“This is a critical time for public health in Bermuda, and Mr Pearman is uniquely qualified to lead the BHB in its continuing mission to serve the country’s healthcare needs.”

Mr Pearman thanked Dr Richmond, adding that they worked closely together as the BHB implemented strategies over several years.

“I’m looking forward to continuing the drive to improve quality and value at BHB,” he said.

“I remain passionate about our pursuit of excellence, even as we navigate the challenges ahead, working with the wonderful staff at BHB and our many partners in government and the community."