The HCSA was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Tim Wilkinson who was a beloved member of the NHS procurement community.
Tim joined the NHS in 1988 after a long career in the RAF and was initially appointed to the post of Northwest RHA Regional Director of Supplies overseeing the transition from an RHA hosted service to a Trading Agency – Health Care Supplies Northwest.
Tim built upon the work of Evan Sutherland and his senior team to create a unified Northwest Supplies Service from the previous District and Divisional structure.
John Cooper, who was part of Tim’s senior team, said: “Tim Wilkinson was a unique character who fortunately for me and many others found his way into the NHS purchasing and supply profession in his glorious prime. We were truly blessed to have him in our ranks.”
The mid to late 1980s was a transformative period for purchasing and supply management in the North West Region, so when Evan Sutherland left for a national role morale amongst the senior team was low. However the arrival of Tim very quickly raised spirits with his humorous , collegiate and expansive style.
John explains: “Tim’s infectious personality found its way into every corner of North West Region and we continued to progress forming Health Care Supplies ( North West) as a self funding trading agency of the Regional Health Authority that became a template for NHS Supplies.”
Evan Sutherland described Tim as “a wonderful man, small in stature but very big in character”.
Tim and Evan were close friends for over 30 years and stayed in regular contact after they both retired.
Evan added: “Tim was a natural, charismatic leader who was great fun to be around. He had an amazing feel good factor about him and everyone felt better after spending time in his company. He will be sadly missed by all of us who were fortunate enough to have spent time with him.”
Tim was also a long standing supporter of the HCSA and was a lively and much-loved presence at our annual gala dinner including his final appearance at our 2021 event in Harrogate accompanied by his wife Anne.
Mark Roscrow HCSA Trustees Chairman said: “Tim had the natural ability to command both love and respect -his warmth and natural charm ensured he was both great company and a shrewd judge of character. He brought a straightforward and common-sense approach to the challenges of NHS
Procurement leaving a legacy both in the Northwest and Northeast that he could be proud of. The HCSA and NHS Procurement has lost a great ally.”
HCSA colleagues will attend Tim’s memorial service at 2pm at St Peter’s Church Harrogate on Tuesday 5 March.
Date: 20 February