Lansley names preferred Commissioning Board chair

Andrew Lansley has selected Professor Malcolm Grant CBE as his preferred choice to become the chair of the NHS Commissioning Board.

The New Zealander barrister, academic and former government advisor currently holds the post of President and Provost of UCL (University College London).

The Health Secretary says that Professor Grant is “outstandingly capable and has excellent leadership skills” and he “shares the public sector ethos and values of the NHS”.

Professor Grant, who has also served as a UK business ambassador, is expected to take the post at the end of October, following a pre-appointment scrutiny hearing in front of the Health Select Committee. It will be his first role in the health sector.

In the past ten years, Professor Grant has held a number of high profile positions including the pro vice chancellor of Cambridge University, chair of the local government commission, chair of the Agriculture and Environment Biotechnology Commission.

His role as the head of the NHS Commissioning Board will be to provide strategic leadership and vision for commissioning.

“I am honoured to be named the preferred choice for this vital role,” said Professor Grant. “I am passionate about the NHS and see the Commissioning Board as playing a key part in delivering a service which meets the future needs of patients and of the nation.

“We need to build on the very best NHS qualities of dedicated public service, professionalism and pride, and seize the opportunity to create long-term stability and focus on getting constant improvement in quality and openness to innovation.”