After more than 21 years at the Medical Protection Society (MPS), 5 years as Chief Executive, Dr John Hickey today announced his decision to retire in June 2007.
During his successful tenure as Chief Executive, John Hickey has consolidated and strengthened MPS's position as the UK's and the world's leading indemnifier of health professionals. He has ensured MPS is financially strong, overseen a substantial growth in membership and placed a renewed emphasis on MPS's not for profit mutual status.
Commenting on his decision John Hickey said:
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at MPS and it has been a privilege to lead the organisation over the past 5 years. MPS has an important role to play in providing professional support and expert advice to doctors, dentists and other health professionals. During my 21 years at MPS I have seen the organisation grow and develop into one with over 235,000 members in more than 40 countries worldwide. MPS helps tens of thousands of members every year and one of the most gratifying aspects of my job has been the heartfelt letters of thanks I have received from members who value the high quality assistance provided by MPS."
John will leave behind a strong and successful organisation well positioned for further growth in the future. MPS's elected Council is planning a smooth transition. Recruitment will commence shortly with a view to appointing a successor for 2007.
In response to John's decision to retire MPS Chairman, Dr Nicholas Davies, said:
"Council were saddened to learn today that John Hickey, who has led MPS to its current position of considerable strength, will be retiring in June 2007. We are taking the steps necessary to appoint his successor as Chief Executive."
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Note to editors
1. Formerly an anaesthetist, Dr John Hickey MBBS, FRCA, FFFLM, joined MPS as a medicolegal adviser in 1985 and established the MPS's Australian office in Melbourne 1987-89. He was appointed Marketing Manager in 1991 and subsequently Commercial Director in 1994, with responsibility for marketing and membership administration.
John became Medical Director of MPS in June 1998 and in 2002 was appointed Chief Executive.