The NHS Confederation has announced the appointment of a new chief executive following the recent resignation of former head Mike Farrar.
Rob Webster, who is currently the chief executive of Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, will take up the role in February 2014.
The membership body, which represents the organisations that commission and provide NHS services, has also appointed Sir Andrew Cash, the chief executive of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, as deputy chair.
Mr Webster has previously had national leadership roles in the Department of Health on access, primary care, workforce, NHS modernisation, finance and efficiency, and worked for the Prime Minister’s delivery unit on civil service reforms.
NHS Confederation chair Michael O’Higgins said: ‘The NHS Confederation took massive strides in the past few years under the leadership of Mike Farrar, and there is still immense respect for Mike throughout the health service.’
‘While we are delighted he will continue to work with us as an associate, it is imperative that the NHS Confederation builds on the foundations that form his legacy.’
‘As a former primary care trust chief executive, now heading up a successful community health services provider, Rob brings with him a diverse range of talents, including superb leadership, listening and engagement skills, as well as a strong track record of innovation and delivery.’
