A barrister and academic who has advised government on genetically modified food has been named as the health secretary’s preferred candidate for chair of the NHS Commissioning Board.

Malcolm Grant, who was awarded a CBE in 2003 for services to planning and local government, is a New Zealander who is currently president and provost of University College London.

He has held a series of high profile posts during the past decade including pro vice chancellor of Cambridge Univeristy, chair of the local government commission, chair of the Agriculture and Environment Biotechnology Commission and a UK business ambassador. However, this will be his first role in health.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley said: “Professor Grant has distinction and authority, is outstandingly capable and has excellent leadership skills, demonstrated by his success at UCL. He has a strong track record of delivery in complex public sector organisations, and shares the public sector ethos and values of the NHS.”

Professor Grant will now appear before the Commons’ health select committee in a pre-appointment scrutiny hearing on Tuesday.

If his appointment to the £63,000 per annum post is approved, he will work alongside chief executive designate and current NHS chief executive Sir David Nicholson to set up the commissioning board in shadow form and begin authorising clinical commissioning groups.

The board is due to become fully operational in 2013 when it will be responsible for overseeing CCGs and commissioning some services.

Professor Grant said: “I am honoured to be named the preferred choice for this vital role. 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.”


Topics