Sir David Nicholson

Former Chief Executive of NHS England & of West Midlands Strategic Health Authority & Director of David Nicholson Healthcare Solutions

Sir David Nicholson’s Biography:

Sir David Nicholson is a leading public policy analyst and one of the most knowledgeable voices in healthcare leadership. His most prominent achievement was serving as Chief Executive of NHS England, where he led one of the largest healthcare organisations in the world. With decades of experience in managing national health systems and transforming healthcare services, David is now a highly sought-after speaker, valued for his strategic insight into patient care, system reform and large-scale leadership.

David entered the mental health sector early in his career, gaining ten years of experience in policy before moving into the acute hospital sector in 1998. His leadership potential was quickly recognised, and he became Chief Executive of Doncaster and Montague NHS Hospitals Trust, supporting the rollout of the first wave of NHS reforms. He later served as Regional Director across several NHS regions, including Trent, Eastern and West Midlands. In 2006, David was appointed the seventh NHS Chief Executive, responsible for a £90bn budget and 1.3 million staff, a role he continued in when NHS England was created until 2014.

Throughout his career, David has been recognised with prestigious honours, including Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2004 and Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath in 2010. He has served on influential boards and worked internationally, including as Chairman of the State Health Services Organisation in Cyprus. David continues to support healthcare improvement through advisory roles, professorships and consultancy positions, contributing to publications and global health initiatives.

Why Hire Sir David Nicholson?

David brings unparalleled expertise from leading the NHS at a national level and shaping major system reforms. He has spoken for global health organisations, advised governments and shared practical lessons on leadership under pressure. With his strategic depth and real-world experience guiding complex healthcare transformation, he offers audiences compelling insights into turning policy into effective, patient-focused change.

Sir David Nicholson’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Sir David Nicholson’s career in healthcare, leadership & management:

• 2025 – Awarded Honorary Doctorate from Aston University
• 2022 – Appointed Chair of Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
• 2021 – Appointed Chair of Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust
• 2018 – Non-Executive Director at Lifecycle
• 2018 – Appointed Chair of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust
• 2017 – Served as Global Advisor at KPMG Centre for Universal Healthcare
• 2017 – Became President of the State Health Service Organisation in Cyprus
• 2014 – Founded David Nicholson Healthcare Solutions
• 2014 – Visiting Professor at the Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London
• 2012 – Chief Executive of NHS England
• 2006 – Chief Executive of the NHS