We say goodbye to Dr. Helga Holst

Dr. Holst, a hugely respected, experienced, committed and internationally applauded medical administrator, stands down as Chief Executive Officer on Friday 28 September.

"The time is right for me to pass on the baton to the next generation. A successful organisation must adapt to a rapidly changing environment. After 20 wonderful years as CEO, it is time to allow a new leadership to build a new future for the hospital," explained Dr. Holst.

20 years ago, Dr. Holst was invited to take up a position as medical superintendent at McCord doing clinical and management work. Prior to that, she had been working in a rural hospital for 13 years.

McCord Hospital is known for providing quality, affordable medical care to Durban's people for 103 years.Visionary American missionary surgeon, Dr. James McCord, opened McCord Hospital in May 1909 to provide medical care to the Zulu people of Durban. The hospital has evolved into a centre for health education, training and research locally and internationally, and has an impact well beyond its size and location.

Recent achievements include a new maternity department and baby nursery, and a new roof garden for patients and their families. McCord has also responded to the strong public sector focus on service delivery.

The hospital has for many years been a subsidised institution with support from the Department of Health and PEPFAR - for which the hospital is hugely appreciative and grateful.

Since the hospital joyously celebrated their centenary (1909 - 2009), much of the focus of Dr. Holst, the board and hospital management, has been on adapting to the changing financial landscape.

In her retirement, Dr. Holst intends to continue to be a strong ambassador for McCord and will continue to network and support the hospital into its new future.

"I will have only the fondest memories of my time spent at McCord," considers Dr. Holst. "Over the years, I have been supported by astonishing colleagues, wonderful staff, generous partners, committed funders and great friends. Together we have done amazing work of which we can all be very proud. It is with satisfaction of a job well done, many good memories that I leave McCord in the competent hands of the next generation and wish the hospital well for its years ahead," she says.

Kevin Smith - who is currently the Chief Financial Officer - will be acting CEO until a new incumbent has been appointed.