letters

Far from being a 'quick fix', as Ian Chalmers alleges (letters, 15 July), the senior chief executive programme has been designed over considerable time by a group of senior chief executives, including myself.

We have dedicated much time to working with the leadership programme for chief executives on this project.

The resulting service specification and tendering process will, we believe, deliver an exceptional programme for us.

At the same time, the leadership programme has involved regional leads on personal and organisational development, and the regional directors - an example of service partnership that characterises their programmes.

Response from lead organisations wishing to join this collaborative venture has been terrific, with over 60 initial bids - a practical demonstration of the quality and diversity of provider organisations able to keep pace with the service.

The programme is intended for all our colleagues who have been in chief executive posts for seven years or more. Some of us are queuing up to take part and shape this programme.

Phillip Brown

Chief executive

Hillingdon Hospital trust