CELS, the Centre of Excellence for Life Sciences, the organisation driving the growth of North East England’s healthcare economy, today announced the appointment of Brian Steven to its board of directors.

Brian Steven, Finance Director and Deputy Chief Executive of the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Hospitals Trust and a former Director of Finance in the NHS in Scotland, will join the CELS board with immediate effect.

Mr. Steven’s appointment marks an important new chapter for the organisation and his role on the board will be to assist in developing CELS’ strategy to grow the healthcare economy of North East England by £1 billion.

Mr. Steven’s credentials include a strong NHS background, having spent eleven years working in Scotland for the Glasgow Royal Infirmary University NHS Trust and the North Glasgow University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Mr. Steven is a CCAB-qualified Director of Finance and was admitted to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland in 1976 after completing his MBA at Strathclyde University.
Mike Asher, CEO of CELS, describes the significance of Brian Steven’s appointment: “Brian’s appointment to the CELS board establishes a direct link between CELS and the NHS in Newcastle.  The NHS represents the largest element of the Healthcare sector in the North East and it is of crucial importance that CELS and the NHS work closely to achieve the ambitious economic growth targets we have set for the region.”

”Brian brings a wealth of experience to our Board and an outstanding track record of achievement at the highest levels of business. His NHS knowledge will be hugely beneficial to CELS.”

Commenting about his new position, Brian said:  “This is a very exciting time for CELS.  As the healthcare industry expands to play an increasingly important role in the economy, I look forward to working with CELS to take advantage of emerging opportunities and meet any arising challenges.”