Nursing and midwifery leader brings expertise to University of Cumbria through honorary role
An accomplished nursing and midwifery leader is looking to help inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals after being appointed as a Professor of Practice at the University of Cumbria.
Susan Foyle, who is Director of Midwifery at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT), brings more than 40 years of experience to the Faculty of Health.
Her appointment as an Honorary Professor of Practice recognises her contribution to healthcare leadership and acknowledges the distinction she has achieved both nationally and internationally.
Susan said: “I am truly honoured to accept this role and am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside university colleagues.
“Together, I hope we can inspire the next generation of midwives and healthcare professionals while continuing to improve outcomes for the communities we serve.”
Prior to her current role with UHMBT, Susan held senior executive positions within the Australian healthcare system.
As Executive Director of Nursing, Midwifery, Quality and Safety at Central Queensland Hospital and Health Services, Susan was the professional lead for 2,500 registered nurses and midwives across 15 facilities.
While Down Under, she picked up the 2019 Association of Queensland Nursing & Midwifery Leaders Outstanding Achievement Award.
Susan also brings experience of working within higher education to her new role at the University of Cumbria.
She was appointed as an Adjunct Professor at Central Queensland University during her time in Australia, while she has also lectured in midwifery at the University of Nottingham.
Now with UHMBT, which has a long-standing relationship with the University of Cumbria, Susan is the professional lead for midwives and neonatal nurses across the trust.
Her extensive leadership experience and passion for excellence in patient care will strengthen the University of Cumbria’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in healthcare.
The university is committed to helping students develop the skills to make a difference in the workplace, reflected by its ranking as No.1 in the Northwest and among the top five universities in the UK for graduate outcomes.
Susan’s new role is another example of effective partnership working between the university and UHMBT to improve health and opportunities in the region.
Professor Karen Stansfield, the University of Cumbria's Dean of the Faculty of Health, said: “It’s fantastic to welcome someone as experienced as Susan to our Faculty of Health.
“Having worked in healthcare systems in both the UK and Australia, the university will benefit from her expertise and professional networks.
“Her current leadership role at UHMBT – one of our key regional NHS partner organisations – presents a significant opportunity to strengthen collaboration in healthcare education, professional development, student learning, workforce innovation and research.”