NMC thanks Dame Ruth May for time as Chief Nursing Officer for England

Published on 16 April 2024

The Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) for England has announced that she will be retiring later this year.

Andrea Sutcliffe, Chief Executive and registrar, said:

"Ruth has provided phenomenal leadership for the nursing and midwifery professions in England, not least through the unprecedented and sustained hardship of the Covid-19 pandemic, when she showed clarity of vision and a human touch.

"Ruth has been a very visible Chief Nursing Officer, actively speaking up in support of the professions and celebrating their achievements. At the same time, she’s worked tirelessly behind the scenes on expanding the workforce and securing improvements, including new funding for continued professional development for nurses and midwives. Ruth has also been a staunch advocate for internationally educated colleagues and Black, Ethnic Minority professionals, with a commitment to promoting anti-racism.

“On a personal note, I have valued Ruth’s wise counsel and advice, her constructive challenge and her friendship. It’s been a privilege to work with her. On behalf of everyone at the NMC, I want to thank Ruth for her tireless dedication and exceptional contribution as a selfless public servant."


Other recent news…

NMC seeks independent Chair to lead Code and revalidation steering group

Published on 04 July 2025

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is searching for a senior nursing or midwifery leader to chair an external steering group that will oversee its reviews


NMC sets EDI targets to eliminate disparities and drive culture change

Published on 25 June 2025

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has launched new equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) targets to drive fairness in its regulatory processes and for


Julia Corkey appointed as Executive Director of Communications and Engagement

Published on 23 June 2025

We’re delighted to announce we have appointed Julia Corkey as our substantive Executive Director of Communications and Engagement.

News categories