16 August 2026
The 30 June 2026 marked the end of a long and distinguished career for Heather Finlay, Head of the Clinical Education Centre (CEC).
Heather commenced her nursing career in 1986 in the Ulster Hospital as a general nurse and it was the start of what would become a remarkable career in healthcare. After qualifying as a Registered Nurse, Heather gained experience across a wide range of practice areas including plastic surgery, midwifery, acute hospital care, district nursing, advanced nursing practice, and community services, working in the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH), City Hospital, Donaghadee, Newtownards, and East Belfast.
Throughout her distinguished career, Heather combined clinical excellence with strong leadership, progressing to Sister and later Locality Manager, while achieving qualifications in nurse practitioner practice, a degree, diploma, and a Master’s degree with commendation from Ulster University.
Heather’s career progressed through roles the Department of Health (DoH), and was Deputy Chief Nursing Officer before joining the CEC in November 2021 where she brought extensive experience and leadership. In 2022, she further demonstrated her commitment to professional development by completing the prestigious Florence Nightingale Foundation Leadership Award.
On 25 June, Heather was joined by CEC colleagues to celebrate her truly remarkable career, one defined by dedication, compassion, lifelong learning and unwavering commitment to healthcare.
The 30 June was not just the end of a job, it was the celebration of a legacy. A legacy of care, commitment, resilience, and lifelong learning. A legacy that will continue in the people Heather has mentored, the services she has shaped, and the lives she has touched.
All CEC and everyone in Business Services Organisation (BSO), wish Heather a long, happy, healthy, and well-earned retirement and may it bring her as much fulfilment, joy and pride as she has brought to so many others throughout her career.
Congratulations, Heather and thank you for a truly remarkable contribution to nursing and healthcare.
