Monday 5th February 2024
In a bittersweet moment for Heart Valve Voice, we announce the departure of our esteemed Chairman, Professor Simon Ray, as he embarks on a new and exciting chapter in his professional journey as National Clinical Director for Heart Disease.
Professor Ray, who has been an integral part of our organisation for two years, has played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of our charitable initiatives. As he moves on to embrace a new role, we take a moment to reflect on his impactful leadership and the indelible mark he leaves on Heart Valve Voice - and to thank him for all his contributions.
Professor Ray joined Heart Valve Voice in 2021 after supporting the charity for a number of years and quickly became a driving force behind our mission to increase awareness of heart valve disease and improve patient outcomes. Under his guidance, Heart Valve Voice has witnessed unprecedented growth, expanded its reach, and made significant strides in achieving its objectives. His passion for our cause, coupled with his strategic vision, has been instrumental in steering the organisation towards success.
Wil Woan, the Executive Director of Heart Valve Voice, expressed gratitude for Professor Ray's invaluable contributions: “Simon has been an inspirational leader, providing unwavering support and guidance during his tenure as Chairman. His dedication to advancing our cause has been truly commendable, and he leaves behind a legacy of excellence. His vision has been instrumental in shaping the charity's two-year strategic direction, setting the foundation for our continued success.”
Professor Ray has been a source of inspiration for the entire Heart Valve Voice community, from staff members to patients and volunteers. His commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment has left an enduring impact on the organisation's culture. The strides made under his leadership have not only strengthened Heart Valve Voice’s position within the heart valve disease community but have also enhanced its ability to effect positive change.
As Heart Valve Voice bids farewell to Professor Ray, several trustees expressed their gratitude and well-wishes for his future endeavours. Keith Jackson, a long-serving trustee, remarked, "Working alongside Simon has been an enriching experience. His leadership style, characterised by dedication, fairness and a genuine concern for our cause, has been instrumental in Heart Valve Voice's success. We are grateful for his tireless efforts and wish him nothing but the best in his new role.”
Patient Trustee Phill Read, echoed these sentiments, stating, "Under Simon's stewardship, Heart Valve Voice has achieved remarkable milestones. His ability to inspire and unite people toward a common goal has been the driving force behind our collective success. As he embarks on a new journey, we extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes. Simon leaves behind big shoes to fill, but he has undoubtedly prepared Heart Valve Voice for continued growth and impact.”
As Heart Valve Voice looks to the future, the search for a new Chair is already underway and an announcement on their appointment will be made in due course. The organisation is dedicated to finding a leader who shares the same passion and commitment to making a positive impact in the community. Heart Valve Voice will continue to build on the legacy left by Professor Ray, ensuring that his vision and values are upheld in the years to come.
Professor Ray leaves Heart Valve Voice with our deepest gratitude and warmest wishes for continued success in his new role. His departure marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both him and Heart Valve Voice, and we look forward to witnessing the positive impact he will undoubtedly make in his new role as National Clinical Director. As we bid farewell to a remarkable leader, we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating positive change under the guidance of our dedicated board, staff, and supporters.
Professor Simon Ray said, “Thank you to Wil and the team for all their hard work during my time at Heart Valve Voice. This is a charity I have supported for a long time, and it was an honour to have been part of the Trustee Board for the past two years. Having been part of the development of its new two-year strategic plan, I’ve no doubt it will continue to go from strength to strength. I look forward to watching it grow from the outside and I've no doubt we will continue to work together to improve the pathway for future patients.”