Calum Campbell, former Chief Executive of NHS Lothian, is to be awarded an OBE for services to healthcare in Scotland. Mr Campbell retired in the summer after 40 years of service in the NHS, which culminated in four years at the helm of Scotland second largest health board.
Mr Campbell joined NHS Lothian in June 2020 from NHS Lanarkshire where he had been Chief Executive for five years. Previous appointments include Chief Executive at NHS Borders for five years and various Director posts within Scotland and Wales.
Joining Mr Campbell on the Honours list is NHS Lothian Equality and Diversity Adviser Rakiya Suleiman who receives an MBE for services to eliminating discrimination and advancing equality and good relations.
Commenting on his award, Calum Campbell said “Whilst I am surprised and delighted to receive the nomination, I am acutely conscious that it takes a great team to get things done. I have been privileged to work with some of the very best and so extend my gratitude to my former colleagues too.”
Rakiya Suleiman said “I’m overwhelmed and very grateful to be receiving an MBE. I always believe we are better when we celebrate our difference and be kind, so this honours everyone who works towards those goals.”
NHS Lothian Chief Executive, Professor Caroline Hiscox, said “These awards are tremendous news and richly deserved. I am delighted that Calum’s exceptional leadership and commitment during a lifetime of service to the NHS has been recognised in this way. It is also hugely gratifying that Rakiya and her important work to support equality and help eliminate discrimination in all its forms is honoured. Both Calum and Rakiya are held in the highest regard by NHS Lothian and beyond, and I know that colleagues, past and present, will join me in congratulating them.”
Calum was educated at the University of Paisley where he gained a BA Honours degree in Health Studies and at Glasgow Caledonian University where he received an MBA. He started working with the NHS in 1984, initially as a nurse, and then health visitor before moving into general management. Rakiya began working for the NHS Lothian as a staff nurse and registered midwife 22 years ago before moving into managerial and educational roles. Originally from Nigeria, Rakiya has a Masters Degree in Public Health Sciences from the University of Edinburgh and a Post-graduate Diploma in Education from Queen Margaret University.
