In this pivotal role, Gavin will be responsible for leading and managing the aforementioned teams, as well as Occupational Health, to deliver the ambitions set out within the Trust’s newly-launched People Strategy and ensure its alignment with the organisation’s overall priorities and objectives.
With a diverse and accomplished background, Gavin brings a wealth of experience to this position. Originally hailing from Newcastle, Australia, Gavin’s journey in healthcare began as a Registered Nurse in 1997. After moving to the United Kingdom and working in various critical care roles across NHS trusts in Yorkshire, Edinburgh, and South Wales, Gavin shifted his focus to complex dementia care and served as the registered and operational manager of a 60-bedded clinical unit in Sheffield.
It was during this time that Gavin’s passion for working with teams and improving workforce culture flourished, leading him to complete the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Programme and an Master’s Degree in Healthcare Leadership.
Gavin’s dedication to supporting, coaching and educating people and teams, particularly in the operational and clinical areas, resonates strongly with DBTH’s vision to create a compassionate and inclusive leadership approach. His ultimate goal is to foster a kind, inclusive and supportive environment where individuals can flourish, achieve their objectives, and build meaningful relationships in their work in line with the ethos of our DBTH Way.
Gavin initially joined DBTH in late 2022, taking on his current role in an interim capacity. Following a full external recruitment process, in the substantive role Gavin will play a crucial part in the implementation of DBTH’s new People Strategy as a member of the Chief People Officer’s senior leadership team.
His specific responsibilities include working collaboratively with senior leaders to embed a just and learning culture, promoting diversity and inclusivity within the organisation, and fostering wellbeing initiatives to ensure all colleagues feel valued, developed and supported.
Commenting on his appointment, Gavin said: “I am delighted to join DBTH and I am looking forward to further supporting the delivery of the People Strategy. My focus will be on helping people and teams achieve their goals while fostering a supportive and compassionate work environment to ensure our Trust is the very best employer it can be.”
Zoe Lintin, Chief People Officer at DBTH, congratulated Gavin on his new role, saying: “We are delighted to welcome Gavin Portier to our team. His extensive experience and passion for supporting people’s growth and development align perfectly with our mission to create a positive and inclusive workplace. I wish him all the best in his new position and have no doubt that he will make a significant contribution to our Trust.”
DBTH is one of Yorkshire’s leading acute trusts, serving a population of more than 420,000 across South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire, and the surrounding areas. The Trust provides a wide range of hospital-based services, including emergency and critical care, maternity, cancer, surgical, and medical specialties.