Colleagues and friends pay tribute to ‘brilliant’ CIO Glenn Winteringham

The long-serving CIO at the Royal Free Hospital was known for his inspirational leadership, unstinting kindness, and ability to deliver digital transformation. He died last month, after being diagnosed with cancer

Glenn Winteringham led the digital development at the Royal Free Group of hospitals, the largest hospital group in London, over several decades, beginning as CIO at Whittington Hospital.

Peter Landstrom, chief executive of the Royal Free London, said in a tribute: “We are all devastated by the news of Glenn passing away and are thinking of his family at this difficult time. Glenn was widely respected within the NHS and had a lasting impact on our organisation.”

Landstrom added: “His goal was always to consider how digital services could improve patient care and the experience of our staff. He was instrumental in the delivery of a number of landmark projects at the Royal Free London, including the introduction of the electronic patient record and Chase Farm Hospital being awarded Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society level 7.

“He was a lovely, generous and kind-hearted man and a brilliant colleague and he’ll be sorely missed by everyone who worked with him.”

Monica Ralhan, head of endpoint infrastructure and end-user experience at the Royal Free, and a colleague of Glenn’s, shared a tribute she posted on the Royal Free intranet:

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, Glenn Winteringham, who dedicated several decades of his career to the NHS, notably at Whittington Health and later at the Royal Free London. Glenn’s impact on our organisation and the lives of those he worked with was profound.

“Glenn was not only a brilliant CDO but also a mentor and a cherished friend. He had an exceptional ability to make time for everyone, no matter how busy his schedule was. His leadership by example and his talent for inspiring his team to accomplish complex projects were truly remarkable.

“Glenn’s unwavering commitment was always focused on one central question: ‘How can IT improve patient care?’ This mission guided all his professional endeavours and left a lasting legacy in the healthcare community.

“Even as he battled cancer with incredible strength and resilience, Glenn’s dedication never wavered. His courage and determination were an inspiration to all who knew him.”

Beth Macalindin, deputy CNIO at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, described the impact Glenn had on her career in digital:

“I first met Glenn at Digital Health Summer School 2023 as a brand new person to the digital community. Glenn supported me in so many ways; providing guidance, introducing me to other supportive people. I was always interested to listen to Glenn’s infinite wisdom and knowledge in the digital world.

“Glenn always made me laugh and was so much fun outside of work and clearly had a zest for life. I and so many of my colleagues will miss Glenn dearly.”

Industry leader, and co-founder of System C, Markus Bolton said: “Glenn was experienced, fast thinking, strategic, pragmatic and great company.  He was a model CIO and a great loss to the NHS.”

Lloyd Price, start-up advisor and co-founder of Zesty, said he was proud to have called Glenn a “friend, mentor and client”, having worked with him at both the Whittington and the Royal Free trusts.

“The NHS and UK HealthTech industry has lost a leader, innovator and supporter of digital transformation with Glenn’s tragic passing,” he said.