NHS England chief Amanda Pritchard steps down, Sir James Mackey named successor

Amanda Pritchard has announced her decision to stand down as chief executive of NHS England at the end of this financial year.

Pritchard, who has led NHS England since August 2021, made history as the first woman to hold the post, playing a pivotal role in steering the NHS through the Covid-19 pandemic. Previously, she served as chief operating officer from 2019.

Before joining NHS England, she served as chief executive of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, deputy chief executive at Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust and a health team leader in the Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit.

In a statement, Pritchard said the decision came after months of discussions with the secretary of state for health and social care.

“While it has been a hugely difficult decision for me to stand down, I believe now is the right time – with the NHS making continued progress in our recovery, and with the foundations firmly in place to deliver the 10 Year Health Plan,” she said.

Her departure follows scrutiny from two influential House of Commons committees less than a month ago, which discussed her suitability to lead the NHS through what prime minister Keir Starmer has described as the most significant overhaul of the health service.

Sir James Mackey will take over as Transition CEO, working closely with Pritchard over the next month before officially assuming the role on 1 April.

Currently, he serves as chief executive of Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and national director of Elective Recovery. Mackey previously served as chief executive of NHS Improvement.

Mackey acknowledged Pritchard’s significant contributions, stating, “Amanda has done an extraordinary job of leading the NHS through this difficult period.”

He added: “I have always been very proud to work for the NHS and it will be an honour to lead the service through the next phase as we radically reshape the role of NHS England and work with the Government to build an NHS that is fit for the future through the 10 Year Health Plan.

Mackey also expressed gratitude to Newcastle Hospitals, where he has been chief executive for the past 14 months.

He said: “I am sad to be stepping away from Newcastle Hospitals, and it has been a privilege to be part of the dedicated and talented team there over the last 14 months. I have learned a great deal from colleagues there as we have successfully tackled some difficult issues and made significant improvements. I look forward to rejoining them in due course.”

Health secretary Wes Streeting praised Amanda’s leadership during the biggest health emergency in modern history.

He also applauded her for steering NHS England during “turbulent political waters and six secretaries of state” in her time as chief executive.

“She has led with integrity and unwavering commitment,” he said.

Streeting also expressed confidence in Mackey’s leadership, stating: “He knows the NHS inside out, can see how it needs to change, and will work with the speed and urgency we need.”