NHS Confederation announces new chief executive

Rob Webster has been confirmed as the new chief executive of the NHS Confederation, replacing Mike Farrar who stepped down at the end of September.

Sir Andrew Cash will take up to role of deputy chair, the NHS Confederation announced.

Webster is currently chief executive of Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust (LCHT) and will take up his new post in February 2014. Sir Andrew will remain chief executive of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS FT.

NHS Confederation chairman Michael O'Higgins said: “These two appointments are a major coup for the NHS Confederation, and add significantly to the organisation's skills and experience across all sectors of the health service. With today's announcement, we are cementing the NHS Confederation as the 'go to' voice of the health service, binding in the highest levels of experience and influence across the full spectrum of the NHS.

“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.

“I am also delighted to have someone of Andrew Cash’s calibre agree to support the Confederation as deputy chair. Andrew’s insight and experience will be invaluable as we move the NHS Confederation forward and ensure it continues as a strong voice representing the totality of the healthcare system.

“As we progress with our 2015 Challenge, these two additions to our line-up will ensure the NHS Confederation continues to have the breadth and depth of voice and experience necessary for taking on the new challenges facing the NHS.”

Farrar said: “I am delighted that the Confederation was able to select from a very strong range of candidates and that in choosing Rob Webster, one of the emerging talents in the new NHS and one of the most innovative and progressive CEOs, they are signalling a real commitment to a sustainable future for the service. Rob's work in Leeds and his managerial style echo the changes that are taking place among the NHS as a new order of leaders emerges to take on the next set of challenges.

“For the Confederation to have also secured the support of Sir Andrew Cash, who is one of the most successful and respected chief executives in the NHS, is also a major feat and excellent news. Andrew will add real strength to the Board of Trustees and bring insights from the sharp end of high quality service delivery.”

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