How do you modernise a hospital with more than a century of history while protecting what makes it unique? In this episode, Jeremy Butler, Chief Executive Officer of King Edward VII’s Hospital, shares how he is guiding one of London’s most respected independent hospitals through a period of strategic renewal - honouring its charitable mission to support veterans while preparing it for a sustainable future under new ownership by Bupa.
Founded in 1899 to care for soldiers returning from war, King Edward VII’s Hospital has built a reputation for exceptional clinical standards delivered with compassion, dignity, and equity. Jeremy discusses how the organisation is evolving its services, strengthening its self-pay offering, and expanding its charitable impact, all while remaining focused on the purpose that has defined it for more than a century.
Reflecting on leading change within a legacy institution, Jeremy highlights why effective transformation relies on clarity of purpose, consistency, and kindness. He shares the importance of “blaming the process, not the person,” and why meaningful innovation must always start with solving real problems. His perspective offers a thoughtful view on how heritage organisations can evolve with integrity - balancing precision, empathy, and long-term mission.