South East London ICB and South West London ICB are pleased to announce the appointment, by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, of Sir Richard Douglas as the joint Chair for the two separate organisations; and, following the conclusion of our recruitment process, that Andrew Bland has been appointed as the single, joint Chief Executive Officer.
The appointments follow the decision by the Boards of each organisation to collaborate more closely and combine expertise and leadership as strategic commissioners to deliver for south London as a whole. Both ICBs remain separate organisations.
Andrew has served as Chief Executive of NHS South East London ICB since its inception in 2022 and has held senior healthcare leadership roles across the capital for more than 18 years.
Sir Richard Douglas, Joint Chair for NHS South East London and NHS South West London, said:
“I am delighted that Andrew will be leading both organisations. By collaborating where it makes sense to do so, we can add real value to patient care, while recognising the distinct role each ICB plays in supporting local people and communities throughout their lives. With Andrew’s leadership, our organisations are well placed to realise the benefits of these new arrangements over the coming years.”
Dr Anne Rainsberry, previously Acting Chair, and now Deputy Chair, of NHS South West London said:
“I welcome the appointment of Andrew Bland who brings years of experience in commissioning and securing improved health and care. I know he is someone who truly understands the benefits of collaboration and how it can create better outcomes for the residents we are here to serve.”
On starting his new appointment, Andrew said:
“I am excited and proud to have been appointed as joint Chief Executive of South East ICB and South West London ICB. While we are clear we will remain two separate organisations – we now have the opportunity to learn and develop together as we deliver the ambitions we have for local people and those set out in the NHS 10-Year Health Plan. By collaborating where it makes sense to do so, we can pool expertise, experience, and leadership for the benefit of the communities of south London.”
Dr Anne Rainsberry added:
“I would like to thank Katie Fisher for the significant contribution she has made to South West London ICB over the past year. Under her leadership, we have achieved strong clinical, operational and financial performance and she has demonstrated consistent commitment and care for our communities, partners and colleagues. I wish her every success in her new role as Interim Chief Executive of NHS North Central and North West London ICBs.”