New Beginnings at the Care Quality Commission: A Message from the New Chief Executive
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has entered a new chapter as Julian Hartley begins his tenure as Chief Executive. With over 30 years of experience in the health and care sector, Julian brings a steadfast commitment to ensuring safe and effective services for all.
In his first address, Julian emphasized the pivotal role of the CQC in driving improvements in health and social care. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, he outlined his vision for a regulator that is outward-looking, responsive, and deeply committed to improvement and support, alongside its role in assessment.
Key Priorities for Change
Julian has set an ambitious agenda for the coming weeks:
- Implementing Recommendations: Guided by the findings of reviews led by Dr. Penny Dash and Professor Sir Mike Richards, the CQC will focus on urgent enhancements, particularly in technology and methodologies, to improve the quality and frequency of assessments.
- Genuine Co-Design Approach: Collaboration is central to Julian’s leadership style. By engaging with the public, stakeholders, and CQC colleagues, the organization will strive to co-create solutions that meet the needs of those it serves.
- Putting People at the Heart of Regulation: Julian envisions a CQC that balances assessment with support, fostering improvement across the sector while keeping the needs of individuals at the core of its mission.
A Proven Leader in Healthcare
Julian’s career in the NHS is marked by leadership roles that have driven meaningful change. As the Chief Executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, one of England’s largest teaching hospitals, Julian demonstrated his capacity for steering complex organizations toward excellence. His earlier roles include:
- Chief Executive at Tameside and Glossop Primary Care Trust
- Chief Executive at Blackpool, Fylde, and Wyre Hospitals
- Chief Executive at University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust
Notably, Julian led the development of the NHS People Plan in 2019, underscoring his commitment to empowering healthcare professionals and fostering organizational growth.
Looking Ahead
Julian’s leadership marks a significant opportunity for the CQC to enhance its regulatory role and build stronger, more supportive partnerships across the health and social care sector. His focus on improvement, collaboration, and people-centered regulation signals an exciting and transformative period for the organization.