Spire's Garry Watts undergoing major medical treatment

The FTSE 250 firm said that, as a result, while he would remain active and engaged in the company's activities, he had indicated to the board that he wished to revert to his previous role as non-executive chairman of Spire.

In light of that, the group also confirmed the appointment of Simon Gordon, Spire's current chief financial officer, as its interim chief executive officer, with immediate effect.

The post of chief financial officer, also on an interim basis, would be taken by Andrew Goldsmith, who was currently Spire's head of finance.

Goldsmith, who is a member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, joined the Spire Group - then Bupa Hospitals - in April 2007.

Spire also confirmed that a formal process was underway to identify and appoint a permanent chief executive officer.

The process was expected to include candidates from both inside and outside the group.

“I and the board would like to thank Garry for all his hard work as executive chairman in the last year,” said deputy chairman Peter Bamford.

“Now that he is returning to his previous role as non-executive chairman we are very fortunate to be able to appoint Simon Gordon as interim CEO, since his tenure with the company and previous interaction with our investors means he will move seamlessly into that role, while continuing to work closely with Garry.”