Bernard was my boss’s boss for nearly two years whilst he was CEO of the NHS Institute. It was one of my first board positions and he was quick to help dig me out of holes and stop me from going down blind allies when I began and was inexperienced about the politics. He was very compasssionate, approachable and we talked often about our respective families, mainly our children. He cared so deeply about his kids, telling me once how he’d been late as he went to buy school shirts for his daughter on the way to work so that they were right for her.  

He had a rare gift of knowing how to frame a concept or thing he was trying to explain to others, in absolutely the perfect and accessible way; seemingly understanding intellects, interests and motivations of people very acutely and accurately. RIP Bernard – you truly led well, with great good humour and enviable intellect.