A former top civil servant has taken over as the boss of a healthcare company.

David Killip, who was the chief executive of the Department of Health and Social Security until he left the post in 2014, is Elder Healthcare’s new chief executive.

Elder Healthcare operates the Elder Grange and Springfield Grange elderly persons’ homes in Douglas.

Mr Killip replaces Ned Carroll, who stays on as finance director.

Ned Carroll said: ’We are delighted to welcome David to the company.

’He is known to us from his time as chief executive of the DHSS and then the Department of Health, but particularly over the last three years when he has been a regular visitor to Elder Grange as part of his volunteer work with the local charity "Paws for Therapy".

’As David has provided us with consultancy advice since the start of 2018, now that he is chief executive, I look forward to continuing to work alongside him.’

Mr Killip said: ’The quality of care, the professional and cheerful staff, and the company’s determination to remain in the forefront of providing excellent care has been evident to me throughout my involvement with the company via my charity work.

’It’s also clear how happy the residents are, which is of paramount importance.

’The opportunity to join the Elder team as chief executive was exciting and immediately attractive.

’As we have recently received planning consent for developments to further enhance the facilities at Elder Grange, I’m very pleased to collaborate in that project as it matures.

’I’m also looking forward to better getting to know the management and staff at Springfield Grange. I’m already grateful to the management and staff of both homes for extending such a warm welcome to me.’

David Killip took up his appointment on July 1.