Assura founder leaves the business
THE chief executive of Warrington-based healthcare property group Assura has stepped down.
Richard Burrell founded the group in 2003 and led its flotation on the London Stock Exchange.
Earlier this month he led negotiations when the company sold 75% of its GP business Assura Medical to Virgin Healthcare.
The company said that following the sale, it is now focussing on unlocking value in its property and pharmacy businesses, reducing its cost base and resuming dividend payments.
A statement said: “With that in mind and having successfully secured the future of the medical services business, Richard considers it appropriate for him to pursue opportunities outside Assura.”
Nigel Rawlings, formerly the chief financial officer, has been appointed as chief executive.
Assura also announced that non-executive director Clare Hollingsworth is joining the board of Virgin Healthcare to represent its 25% interest in that business.
Assura remains in early-stage talks with a potential buyer for its business, which it said may or may not lead to a takeover bid.
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Meanwhile, the managing director of interactive TV gaming company NetPlay TV has resigned to “explore new opportunities”.
Gavin Whyte, who joined the company at its inception in 2006, is to establish his own mobile gaming business but will continue to assist the company with its mobile strategy on a freelance basis.
