A GREAT Yarmouth hospital which was under fire from inspectors has launched its search for a new chairman.

The salary for the post, which is being advertised, is �45,000 for a minimum of three days a week.

The James Paget University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a new chairman to help lead the trust as it continues to improve the care offered to patients.

Non-executive director Peter Franzen, OBE, took on the role of interim chairman in November last year after John Hemming resigned from the role following critical Care Quality Commission (CQC) reports.

In December and January the CQC lifted the warning notices which had been placed on the James Paget University Hospital and staff continue to focus on meeting the care standards for patients.

The role of chairman involves leading the Board of Directors and providing support, advice and challenge to the hospital's chief executive.

The hospital's Governors and Directors are looking for a highly motivated candidate with close links to Norfolk and Suffolk and candidates must be passionate about patient care.

The hospital's Governors' Council, which is made up of elected public and staff governors plus appointed governors, must approve any appointment and the lead Governor will take part in the selection and interview process.

Lead Governor Mr Hugh Sturzaker said: 'The role of Chairman is essential in leading our hospitals and making sure that the improvements in patient care that have already been made continue to be made.

'We will be looking for someone who is passionate about providing high quality care and understands the local area and its needs. The Chairman will be instrumental in continuing to restore confidence in what is a first-class hospital'.

The successful applicant will be appointed for a three-year term and will be expected to start in May 2012.

Applications close at 9am on Monday, March 5 2012. Applications can be emailed to pippa.hogg@harveynash.com