​The Care Quality Commission has appointed a new Chief Executive, Sir Julian Hartley. While his start date is yet to be confirmed, the announcement comes after a difficult summer for the regulator.

Hartley’s previous experience will be crucial to restoring confidence in the regulator. Prior to this role, Hartley served as Chief Executive of the membership organisation NHS Providers and led Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. His extensive experience in the field and his leadership in guiding organisations through challenging times bring hope that the CQC will become an effective regulator once again.

Ian Dilks, Chair of the CQC, acknowledged that Sir Julian “is an experienced and highly respected chief executive with a track record of leading organisations through challenging times.” Dilks is confident that Sir Julian's qualities and experience will ensure that the right changes are made, enabling the regulator to become effective again.

Sir Julian’s appointment follows Ian Trenholm’s resignation as Chief Executive at the end of June after six years in the post. Trenholm left the organisation while it was in “the final stages of delivering an ambitious transformation programme.” However, less than a month later, a review into the CQC identified failings, suggesting the regulator was unable to consistently and effectively assess the quality of health and care services.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting declared the CQC “unfit for purpose” and expressed that he was “stunned” by the findings. Streeting has reacted positively to Sir Julian’s appointment and is confident that he will improve patient safety and restore confidence in the regulator.

Sir Julian said, “I am delighted to be joining the CQC at a time when effective regulation that supports improvement across the health and care sector and ensures good, safe care for people who use services has never been more important.”

"I have spent my career in the NHS, and I will do my utmost to bring all I have learned to serve people who use services and to work with CQC staff and providers to deliver high-quality regulation that drives improvement across the health and care system."