Ms Boyle works at the hospital as quality and risk manager and was selected for the director of nursing role ahead of a field of applicants from throughout the state.

Ms Boyle's appointment comes after the resignation of Karen Laing who headed the nursing division for nine years after 10 years as operations manager and critical care nurse manager at Bendigo Health.

Chief executive Darren Rogers said Ms Boyle had showed high levels of motivation and team-building skills.

“Jayne was instrumental in taking us to an excellent accreditation result earlier this year," he said.

"Jayne has extensive knowledge of all areas of the hospital, which means she will hit the ground running.

“The panel believed she is ready to step up to executive level in an acute health service.”

Ms Boyle's predecessor Ms Laing told the Bendigo Advertiser recently she planned to enjoy a break with her husband and children at their Lockwood farm.