Sir David Nicholson

Sir David Nicholson, Former Chief Executive of NHS England, is a renowned public policy analyst and a high-performance speaker with a remarkable career that spans over 30 years. His expertise in healthcare management, particularly in mental health and acute hospitals, positions him as a pivotal figure in discussions surrounding healthcare reform and innovation. Known for his engaging and informative speaking style, David captivates audiences with his insights into public health policy, leadership, and organisational management.

David’s journey began at the University of the West of England, where he graduated with a degree in History and Politics. His career commenced as a graduate trainee in the NHS, where he spent a decade in mental health, significantly contributing to the closure of old asylums and the development of community care services. In 1998, he transitioned into the acute hospital sector as Chief Executive of the Doncaster and Montague NHS Hospitals Trust, introducing Clinical Directorates and pioneering Total Quality Management practices. This early experience set the stage for his ascent through various senior roles, ultimately leading him to the position of Chief Executive of the NHS in 2006, where he managed a budget of £90 billion and over 1.3 million employees.

In recent years, David has achieved notable successes, including being appointed the Chair of Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust and Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust. His contributions to healthcare reform have garnered recognition, culminating in receiving the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2004 and being knighted as a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in 2010. Since retiring from the NHS, he has taken on international roles, advising governments and organisations globally, and chaired the State Health Services Organisation in Cyprus, working to establish a healthcare system comparable to the UK’s.

As a speaker, David Nicholson is highly sought after for his wealth of knowledge and experience in healthcare management. His ability to distil complex topics into accessible insights makes him an invaluable resource for conferences and seminars worldwide. Leaders in healthcare, policy, and management hire him to inspire change and drive innovation, recognising that his experiences can inform their strategies and enhance their understanding of public health challenges.