This International Nurses Day, Stow Healthcare is celebrating the incredible career journey of Ruth Yates, whose progression from registered nurse to Chief Operating Officer highlights the opportunities available within the care sector.
Ruth joined Stow Healthcare in January 2026 as Chief Operating Officer, bringing with her over two decades of experience and a career built on professional integrity, dedication, compassion and continuous development.
Like many in the sector, Ruth began her journey on the frontline as a nurse. It was here that she developed not only her clinical expertise, but a deep understanding of what truly matters in care – people, relationships and the small moments that make a difference every day.
Rather than seeing nursing as a fixed role, Ruth used it as a foundation.
Her career progressed into leadership, becoming a Home Manager and later moving into senior operational roles across several leading care providers, including Bupa, HC-One and Aria Care Group. With each step, she expanded her impact, supporting and leading not just individuals, but entire teams, homes and communities.
Today, as COO at Stow Healthcare, Ruth plays a key role in shaping the organisation’s future, supporting colleagues across its homes and ensuring that high-quality, holistic care remains at the heart of everything it does.
Reflecting on her journey, Ruth said: “Since qualifying, nursing gave me the foundation for everything I’ve done since. It teaches you resilience, empathy and how you can make a real difference in peoples lives each day. I remain a very proud registered nurse and hope that my career journey demonstrates the many opportunities that are available for all nurses within Health and Social Care.”
Her story is a powerful reminder that nursing is not just a vocation, but a career that can make a real difference and have lasting impact.
Stow Healthcare is proud to celebrate Ruth’s journey this International Nurses Day, recognising not only her achievements, but the vital role nurses play in shaping the future of care.
To hear more about our wonderful nurses, head to our LinkedIn page to read their stories.
