Paul Rees MBE appointed NMC Interim Chief Executive and Registrar

Paul has a wealth of experience in improving organisational performance as a leader in healthcare. He joins the NMC from the National Pharmacy Association, where he has been Chief Executive since November 2023. Prior to that he was Chief Executive of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) and Director for Policy and Engagement at the Royal College of General Practitioners.

Paul joins the NMC at a crucial time as we set a new direction following the independent culture review. His experience in leading organisations through culture transformation is a crucial part of improving the NMC’s fitness to practise processes, for the benefit of the public and the professionals on the register.

Paul was awarded an MBE for services to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in 2022 and has won numerous other awards for his leadership, including the Memcom Louis Armstrong CEO Leadership Award for the membership sector.

Paul will join the NMC on 20 January 2025 for a period of 12 months. Until that time, Helen Herniman will continue to lead the organisation as Acting Chief Executive and Registrar.

The NMC will launch a campaign to recruit a permanent Chief Executive when a successor to Sir David Warren as Chair is appointed in early 2025.

Commenting on his appointment, Paul said: 

“I am looking forward enormously to joining the brilliant team at the NMC and helping them deliver the culture change that they need to thrive in their roles. In turn, this will enable them to deliver their best work for the public who rely on high standards of nursing and midwifery care. Together, we will work to substantially improve the experiences and outcomes for everyone impacted by the NMC’s important role and work as a regulator.” 

Sir David Warren, Chair of the NMC Council, said: 

“On behalf of the Council, I’d like to welcome Paul as our Interim Chief Executive and Registrar. Building a strong and united leadership team will be crucial for ensuring that the NMC earns the trust and confidence of our colleagues, nursing and midwifery professionals and of the public we serve. I believe Paul has the experience, drive and personal values to do just that.  
I also want to thank Helen Herniman for her superb leadership of the NMC since July.   She took over at a very difficult time and has shown great commitment and dedication as Acting Chief Executive and Registrar.” 

Other recent news…