Stacey Keegan

Stacey Keegan

Chief executive, The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust (RJAH)

Stacey Keegan (she/her) joined the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust (RJAH) as interim director of nursing in November 2019 and was appointed substantive chief nurse and patient safety officer in March 2020.

Between March and October 2020, she served as interim chief executive, before returning to her role as chief nurse and patient safety officer. In August 2021, Stacey once again stepped into the role of interim chief executive, and was formally appointed to the substantive chief executive position in December 2022.

She is an NHS trust partner member on the Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care Board and sits on the National Orthopaedic Alliance Board. Stacey’s tenure as chief executive has included leading the Trust through the unprecedented challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, a defining period for both RJAH and the wider NHS. 

A registered trauma and orthopaedic nurse, Stacey brings a wealth of clinical and leadership experience, having held senior roles across multiple NHS trusts. She is deeply passionate about delivering innovative, patient-centred care and is committed to enhancing patient safety, outcomes and experience across all services.

She holds an MSc in Senior Healthcare Leadership and is a graduate of the NHS Leadership Academy’s Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Programme.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career journey so far.

Beyond my professional life, I am married to Marion, and together we share our home with two beloved dogs, Charlie and Freddie. I am passionate about fitness, especially running, and find balance by recharging through adventures in my campervan, a lifestyle that reflects my love for the outdoors and exploration. 

My leadership is marked by authenticity, resilience, and a deep commitment to staff and patient wellbeing. I continue to drive innovation and improvement at RJAH to make it a place where both patients and staff thrive.

What is one lesson or piece of advice you’d like to give aspiring LGBTQ+ leaders?

Lead with authenticity and courage. Being true to yourself. Authenticity builds trust, fosters inclusion, and empowers others to do the same.

What contribution to LGBTQ+ inclusion are you most proud of?

Sharing my MSc dissertation on ‘Heteronormative culture in the NHS’ to aid learning, inclusivity and improvement.