Steve Barnett today announced his resignation as Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation.
Steve said:
“Prompted by recent conversations with our new Chairman, Keith Pearson, and after very careful consideration, I will be leaving my post towards the end of June. I have concluded that this decision is the right one, both for the organisation and for me personally and professionally.
“Colleagues will be aware of the issues we have recently faced surrounding the NHS Employers Member Model project. While I cannot and should not accept responsibility for the actions or omissions of others, I have never shied away from or attempted to dispute the fact that accountability for oversight should properly rest with me as CEO.
“With a new Chair in place, and following the departure of the former Director of NHS Employers, the appointment of a new Chief Executive will allow the organisation to move forward with a fresh senior team at the helm.
“It has been a huge privilege to lead the organisation as Chief Executive for the last two years, and to set up and watch NHS Employers flourish in my previous incarnation as the first Director of NHSE and Deputy CEO of the Confederation. Over the past 7 years I have greatly enjoyed working with exceptionally talented and committed staff at all levels, and have been delighted to see the organisation thrive and grow.
“I would like to thank all my colleagues both externally and within the organisation for all their support and hard work, and to wish the NHS Confederation every success in the future.”
Keith Pearson, NHS Confederation Chair, said:
“I have today received and reluctantly accepted Steve Barnett’s resignation as Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Steve for his outstanding contribution and unfailing commitment to the NHS Confederation and to NHS Employers over the past seven years.
“I would like to make it very clear that Steve’s resignation should not be perceived as any admission of personal responsibility for the issues the organisation has faced of late. Rather, it is hugely to Steve’s credit that he has seen fit to clear the way voluntarily for a new Chief Executive, who will be able to take up the mantle as part of a fresh senior team led by myself as newly appointed Chair.
“Such a decision is in keeping with the professional integrity with which Steve has led the organisation, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Steve for the hard work, dedication and leadership he has displayed during his tenure here and to wish him all the best in the future.
“I will be making a further statement shortly confirming next steps for the Confederation and its leadership.”
