Sir Julian Hartley Appointed as New Chief Executive of CQC
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has announced that Sir Julian Hartley will be appointed as its new Chief Executive. Sir Julian currently serves as Chief Executive of NHS Providers, a role he has held since February 2023. Prior to this, he had a long and distinguished career as the Chief Executive of several healthcare organisations, most notably leading Leeds Teaching Hospitals for ten years.
CQC Chair, Ian Dilks, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment: “I am very happy that CQC will make such a strong appointment to the role of Chief Executive. Sir Julian was chosen from an outstanding field for his significant leadership experience and his experience of contributing to developments in the wider health and social care landscapes.
“Sir Julian is an experienced and highly respected Chief Executive with a track record of leading organisations through challenging times, balancing the need to both improve short-term performance and evolve strategy. His passionate commitment to improving people’s care, combined with his health background and belief in the importance of adult social care, make him an excellent choice.”
Dilks also noted that the CQC faces considerable work ahead in rebuilding trust with the public, providers, and its staff. He acknowledged that ongoing reviews, including the final report from Dr Penny Dash and a commissioned review by Professor Sir Mike Richards, will help shape the changes needed within the organisation. Dilks stated his confidence that Sir Julian’s leadership will be key in guiding the CQC through the coming challenges and ensuring it remains an effective and strong regulator.
Sir Julian Hartley shared his thoughts on the new role: “I am delighted to be joining CQC at a time when effective regulation, which supports improvement across the health and care sector, has never been more important. I have spent my career in the NHS, and I will do my utmost to bring all I have learned to serve people who use services and to work with CQC staff and providers to deliver high-quality regulation that drives improvement across the health and care system.”
Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, also commented on the appointment, emphasizing Sir Julian’s experience in turning around large and complex organisations. Streeting noted the importance of strong leadership at CQC during a time when the regulator is under pressure to improve and restore public confidence.
Dr Penny Dash’s interim report highlighted significant issues within the CQC, leading Streeting to conclude that the regulator was “no longer fit for purpose.” Streeting has committed to reviewing the final report and taking further action as needed, but expressed his confidence that Sir Julian’s leadership will be crucial in addressing the current crisis, improving patient safety, and rebuilding trust.