The Regional Chair will work with Provider and ICB Chairs to deliver against that strategy and ensure high performing Boards and work with the regional executive team to support improvement and intervention.

He brings extensive experience of board‑level leadership, including roles in the public and private sectors, where he chairs and advises a range of organisations that cover social purpose, data analytics and sustainability. His current role includes chairing the UK Health Security Agency, and he was formerly Chairman of Barts Health NHS Trust and a non executive director of CNWL NHS Trust. Ian also has roles at Legal and General Affordable Homes, a for profit social housing business and the Canal and River Trust.

He has a strong track record in strategy, improvement and governance, and a clear commitment to public service values and inclusive leadership.

The Regional Chair role is central to strengthening leadership across the NHS at a time of significant change, supporting the delivery of the NHS’s long‑term priorities including improving health and reducing health inequalities, shifting care out of hospitals and improving productivity for example through digital transformation.

Ian Peters said:

“I am delighted to be taking on this role at a pivotal time for the NHS. I look forward to working with Caroline as Regional Director, Marie, Mike, Richard as ICB chairs, and other leaders and partners across the region which I look forward to coming back to. We will shape and support sustainable improvement and help deliver lasting change to deliver better outcomes for the diverse communities we serve, to improve our colleagues’ working environment, and to stimulate innovation to help the London economy.”

Dame Caroline Clarke said:

“I’m delighted to work with Ian as the Chair of the London Region. His appointment is a real boost to leadership across the region. Ian brings a wealth of experience and judgement needed to support our Chairs and systems across London and reinforce public confidence in the management and leadership of NHS services – driving the improvements our staff and patients deserve.”

Penny Dash, Chair for NHS England said:

“Regional chairs will play a critical role in strengthening leadership and governance across the NHS to improve health and the quality and productivity of services. I’m delighted we have been able to attract a high-calibre group to take on these roles, each bringing the experience, independence and commitment to public service needed to support Chairs, systems and regional teams at a time of significant change and opportunity. I look forward to working with my new colleagues as we continue to deliver the reforms set out in the 10 Year Health Plan and improve services and outcomes for patients and communities.”

Ian will take up the post in mid-April for an initial 3‑year term, working part‑time in line with the non‑executive nature of the role.