Dr Rima Makarem

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust has appointed Dr Rima Makarem as Chair

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust has appointed Dr Rima Makarem, who has 15 years of experience working at board level in the NHS, as its new Chair.

Makarem initially trained as a scientist before going on to hold a variety of senior roles within the global pharmaceutical industry.

She has served as Senior Independent Director and Audit Chair of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, and Audit Chair and External Commissioner at the House of Commons Commission.

Makarem has been also Chair of the Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board since 2020, and is Chair of the Sue Ryder charity, Chair of Queen Square Enterprises, a Lay Council Member for the General Pharmaceutical Council, as well as a Trustee of LifeArc.

Commenting on the appointment, Peter Lewis, Chief Executive of Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We want to continue capitalising on the opportunities that our range of services gives us, to play our part to the health of the people in Somerset, and deliver outstanding integrated care. We believe that Rima will play a very important role in supporting us to achieve this.”

Makarem, who is set to join the Trust in early 2025, added: “I am delighted to be appointed to the role of chair of Somerset NHS Foundation Trust… I am excited to work with Peter and his team on making a real impact on the health of the population of Somerset. I look forward to meeting patients and staff in the New Year.”