New Chair appointed for King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

17 April 2024 - Sir David Behan has been appointed as the new Chair of King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

David’s appointment was approved by the Trust’s Council of Governors this week, and he will take up his new role at King’s later this year.

David is currently a Non-Executive Director on NHS England’s Board, where his term ends this summer. He was previously Chief Executive of the Care Quality Commission between 2012 and 2018. He also Chaired the Board of Health Education England from 2018-2023.

David also worked for over 25 years in local Government, including as Director of Social Services in three Local Authorities. He also previously held the role of Director General for Social Care, Local Government and Care Partnerships at the Department of Health.

Jane Bailey is currently Acting Chair at King’s, and she will continue in this role until David joins the Trust as Chair later this year. Jane will remain a Non-Executive Director and Deputy Chair of the Trust Board once David starts in post.

Professor Clive Kay, Chief Executive at the Trust, welcomed David’s appointment:

“David’s experience and knowledge of health and social care – and the challenges facing the NHS – will be of huge benefit to King’s, our staff, and the communities we serve.

“I know David is already looking forward to getting started, and I would also like to thank Jane Bailey for the important role she has played as Acting Chair over recent months, and will continue to until David joins us later this year.”

Sir David said:

“I am really excited to be joining the Trust Board at King’s later this year. King’s is an organisation with huge potential, and I know how important the services they provide are to local people across south east London, and further afield.

“I am looking forward to working with the whole Trust Board, Governors, the wider leadership team, and the staff who make King’s a special place to work, and to receive care.”

David was appointed following a thorough and competitive recruitment and interview process. His appointment was approved by the Trust’s Council of Governors on 15 April.