The Chief Officer of Jersey's health department is stepping down for medical reasons.

Temporary HCS chief Chris Bown is being replaced by Tom Walker, who is moving from his role in the Cabinet Office.

Staff were told on Tuesday (24 September) that Mr Bown is to have a medical procedure on 3 October.

A government statement says Mr Walker will hold the position until next March, with Mr Bown advising him if he is well enough to resume duties before the end of his contract.

"Tom will work with the Ministerial team on proposed new arrangements to support integrated working across the whole health and care system in Jersey, including primary, secondary, community and third sector healthcare for Jersey. 

Tom will also retain line management of Public Health led by Professor Peter Bradley and the health policy team led by Ruth Johnson. This will ensure the best transition to the new integrated structure for health and care services in Jersey."

Mr Walker's role will be advertised and filled with government.

Mr Bown was appointed interim HCS Chief Officer in March 2023.

Health Minister Tom Binet: “I want to thank Chris Bown for his work in managing the Health and Community Services department, particularly on the necessary turnaround as we focus on the overall structure of the Island’s health and care system, with the principal intention of creating a more integrated, seamless system.

I look forward to working with Tom Walker, a highly experienced Chief Officer and civil servant, and the wider management team on making these important changes a reality.”

Andrew McLaughlin, interim Chief Executive Officer and Head of the Public Service, said: “Chris has been an invaluable support to me during his tenure and a treasured member of the Executive team. His responsibilities will be handed over in an orderly fashion to Tom Walker. We all wish him a speedy recovery.”