Sovereign Health Care appoints new chair

West Yorkshire-based health care cash plan provider Sovereign Health Care has announced the appointment of Keith Hinds as its new chair, subject to regulatory approval. 

Keith, who joined Sovereign’s board as a non-executive director in January 2020, will succeed Jan Fortune, who stepped down after almost four years as chair and nine years on the board.

Keith Hinds is a seasoned commercial chartered accountant with over 45 years of experience in corporate restructuring, pensions advisory and as a professional pension trustee. 

He has held senior leadership roles at major UK accountancy firms, including more than 16 years as a partner at Grant Thornton and two years at Ernst and Young. Hinds also serves as a Professional Trustee for Dalriada Trustees Ltd.

Keith said: “Sovereign’s services are more relevant than ever as people focus increasingly on health and wellbeing but often require support to access the services they need. 

“I am excited to step into the chair role, working with Neil and the Board to build on what we already have and unlock new potential for Sovereign, its customers and local communities.”

Established over 150 years ago, Sovereign Health Care is one of the UK’s longest-standing providers of health care cash plans, serving approximately 67,000 customers across the UK.

The company actively donates over £500,000 annually through its Community Programme to support local charities, groups, and organisations focused on health and wellbeing in West Yorkshire.

Neil McCallum, Sovereign’s chief executive, added: “On behalf of the board and the entire Sovereign team, I would like to thank Jan for her leadership and counsel over the last few years. 

“She has helped steer Sovereign through challenging times and she will be missed.

“I’ve worked closely with Keith since I joined Sovereign in late 2023 and am delighted that he is now stepping into the chair role. 

“This is a pivotal time for Sovereign as we start an exciting transformation phase for the business, which will see us evolve into a dynamic and innovative company. 

“Keith’s experience will be vital in steering this change, making sure we provide even more value and service for our customers and continue to serve the health needs of the people of West Yorkshire.”

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