NHS Employers has announced the appointment of Ben Morrin as its new chief executive, with the role set to commence in July 2026.
Morrin will lead the organisation’s efforts to support workforce leaders across the NHS in England, focusing on building a sustainable workforce, strengthening leadership and helping NHS organisations become leading employers.
Currently serving as integration director at NHS England, Morrin has played a central role in overseeing the integration of NHS England with NHS Digital and Health Education England.
His previous roles include workforce director at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and deputy chief executive at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust.
During his time at UCLH, Morrin led pioneering work in talent and succession planning. The trust became the first NHS employer to guarantee the London Living Wage and introduced enhanced support for parents and carers of premature babies.
A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development since 2007, Morrin is also an alumnus of Harvard Business School. In 2023, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Hull in recognition of his services to the NHS.
Morrin will succeed Dean Royles, who has served as interim chief executive since January 2026, following the departure of Danny Mortimer after more than a decade in post. Mortimer has since taken on a senior leadership role across the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England.
Commenting on his new role, Ben Morrin said:
“I am really looking forward to becoming the chief executive of NHS Employers and helping shape The NHS Alliance.
“NHS Employers has a fundamental role to inspire people leadership that will make the greatest difference for patients and communities. At a time of growing pressure on colleagues across the NHS, it is vital that NHS Employers influences on the issues that matter and in partnership with trade unions.”
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for NHS leadership, following the recent merger of the NHS Confederation and NHS Providers. From April 2026, the unified body will operate as The NHS Alliance.
As chief executive, Morrin will play a key role in shaping workforce strategy at a time of ongoing pressure on NHS staffing and services. His appointment signals a continued focus on leadership development, workforce sustainability and improving employment standards across the health service.
Image credit: NHS Employers
