Five CCGs appoint single chief officer to cover STP patch

Helen Pettersen, a former commissioning support unit managing director, has been named as the chief officer for Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington CCGs.

Under plans revealed by HSJ in September, Ms Pettersen has also been appointed as “accountable officer designate”, so she can lead on sustainability and transformation plans on behalf of the five CCGs.

She has been managing director for North East London CSU and the CCGs said in statement that she “has significant experience in integrated health and social care services”.

Ms Pettersen’s start date is yet to be agreed and it is not clear whether the CCGs’ individual chief officers will remain in post.

Last year Simon Stevens used the north central London STP footprint as an example of an area that could adopt the “NHS equivalent of combined authorities”. Mr Stevens said the grouping could span hospitals and commissioners, and consolidate CCGs.

Debbie Frost, chair of Barnet CCG, said: “On behalf of the five CCGs, I am delighted to announce Helen’s appointment to this key role.

“She knows the challenges facing north central London’s health service well and her wealth of knowledge, experience and skills will stand us in good stead as we continue with our ambitious plans to transform and commission the high quality NHS service that local people deserve.”

Ms Pettersen said: “I am very much looking forward to working closely with staff, partners and local people across the five boroughs in north central London to shape and build outstanding health and health care services for local people and communities that are fit for the future.”

In December, five south London CCGs also announced the appointment of a single accountable officer.