King’s appoints new Chief Executive

04 March 2026 - Trust announces the appointment of Matthew Trainer

King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has today (Wednesday, 4 March) announced the appointment of Matthew Trainer as its new Chief Executive.

Matthew’s appointment follows a competitive recruitment process and was approved – subject to pre-appointment clearances – by the Trust’s Council of Governors this morning.

Matthew (pictured) is currently Chief Executive of Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, a position he has held since 2021.

Prior to this, he was Chief Executive of Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust for three years. He joined the team at Oxleas from King’s, having been Managing Director of the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) in Orpington.

Matthew will formally take up the role at King’s later this year, and his start date at the Trust will be confirmed in due course. Professor Clive Kay will remain Chief Executive of King’s until his retirement this summer.

Sir David Behan, Chair of the Trust, welcomed Matthew’s appointment:

“I am delighted that we have appointed Matthew to this vital role at the Trust. He has deep experience and a proven track record of delivery and improvement. Importantly, he also cares passionately about the NHS, supporting our staff, and delivering high quality care for the diverse communities that we serve.

“These attributes, together with his collaborative and inclusive leadership style, came across strongly during the recruitment process, and I am confident Matthew will be a superb addition to the Trust Board.”

Matthew said:

“It is a huge honour to be appointed Chief Executive of King’s. I am delighted to be coming back to the place where I first worked in a hospital.

“King’s is widely respected for its brilliant people and fantastic care, and I look forward to working with my new colleagues when I join the Trust later this year.”

Sir David added:

“Clive Kay continues in his role as Chief Executive here at the Trust, ahead of his planned retirement later this year, and I would like to thank Clive again for the enormous contribution he has made during his time with the Trust. He cares deeply about King’s, and the work we continue to deliver.”