Movers and Shakers: Key Leadership Changes in the UK Healthcare Sector
The UK healthcare landscape is undergoing significant transformations as new leaders step into pivotal roles, while others announce their departures. This latest roundup of movers and shakers highlights critical appointments and transitions within key organizations, including the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and NHS England. These changes are set to influence the direction of healthcare services across the nation.
New Leadership at the Care Quality Commission
In a notable development, Sir Julian Hartley has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Hartley brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as the chief executive of NHS Providers since February 2023. His previous tenure includes a decade as the chief executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals, where he was instrumental in driving improvements in patient care and operational efficiency. His appointment comes at a critical time for the CQC, which has faced scrutiny over its regulatory practices and effectiveness in ensuring quality care across the healthcare system.
Changes at NHS England
In another significant shift, Richard Meddings, the current chair of NHS England, has announced his intention to step down in March 2025. This decision follows discussions with Wes Streeting, the health secretary, and marks the end of Meddings’ nearly three-year tenure. His leadership has been marked by efforts to navigate the complexities of the NHS during challenging times, and his departure will open the door for new leadership to guide NHS England into the future.
Transition in Integrated Care Boards
Rima Makarem, the chair of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board (ICB), is set to leave her position in December 2024. She will take on a new role as chair of Somerset Foundation Trust, starting early next year. Makarem’s leadership has been pivotal in fostering collaboration among healthcare providers in her current role, and her move to Somerset Foundation Trust is anticipated to bring her expertise to a new setting.
Interim Leadership Changes
Kate Terroni, the current interim chief executive of the CQC, has announced her decision not to apply for the permanent chief executive role. This decision comes amid ongoing challenges faced by the regulator, and her departure signals a need for fresh leadership as the CQC seeks to restore confidence in its regulatory capabilities.
In a positive development, Cara Charles-Banks has been appointed as the joint chief executive for Great Western Hospitals Foundation Trust, Royal United Hospitals Bath Foundation Trust, and Salisbury Foundation Trust. Having served as the chief executive of Royal United Hospitals Bath since 2020, Charles-Banks brings a wealth of experience to her new role, which aims to enhance collaboration and service delivery across these trusts.
Notable Appointments in Integrated Care Boards
Priya Singh, chair of Frimley ICB, is set to replace Sim Scavazza as the acting chair of Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire West ICB. Singh’s appointment is significant as she becomes one of only two individuals to chair two ICBs simultaneously, alongside Kath Mclean of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB and Derby and Derbyshire ICB. This dual role reflects the increasing interconnectedness of healthcare governance in the UK.
Upcoming Retirements and New Roles
Liz Bishop, chief executive of the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre and Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, has announced her retirement in March 2025 after a remarkable 40-year career in the NHS. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing cancer care and cardiac services, and her departure will mark the end of an era for these institutions.
Nik Khashu, currently the NHS England finance director, will take on the role of chief executive at Warrington and Halton Hospitals Foundation Trust, as well as the neighbouring Bridgewater Community Healthcare Foundation Trust, starting in November 2024. His dual role reflects a trend towards integrated leadership in healthcare management.
New Chairs and Leadership Changes
Paul Najsarek has been appointed as the chair of North Central London ICB, succeeding former Camden Council boss Mike Cooke. Najsarek’s extensive experience in local government and healthcare governance positions him well to lead the ICB in addressing the unique challenges of the region.
In the private sector, Kieran Hughes has been appointed as chief executive of Egress Group, a data partner for public sector organizations. His leadership will be crucial in integrating Egress with Stalis, a specialist provider of data services to the NHS, enhancing the capabilities of both organizations.
Future Leadership in Healthcare
Joanne Chadwick-Bell, currently the chief executive at East Sussex Healthcare Trust, will transition to become the group chief executive at Royal Wolverhampton Trust and Walsall Healthcare Trust in January 2025. This move follows the interim leadership of Caroline Walker, who returned from retirement to guide the trusts through a transitional period.
Laura Churchward has recently been appointed as chief executive at University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, which includes Northampton and Kettering General Hospitals. Her previous experience as director of strategy at University College London Hospitals Foundation Trust will be invaluable as she leads these critical healthcare institutions.
Paul Miller will take on the role of chair at Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership Trust in November 2024, stepping down from his current position as non-executive director at Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire ICB.
Conclusion
The healthcare sector in the UK is witnessing a dynamic shift in leadership, with new appointments and departures shaping the future of service delivery. As these leaders step into their roles, their collective vision and strategies will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead and ensuring the continued improvement of healthcare services for the population. For more updates on leadership changes in healthcare, visit Digital Health Intelligence.