Danny Mortimer, chief executive of NHS Employers and deputy chief executive of the NHS Confederation, will join the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) in February as the director general for people.
He will replace Jo Lenaghan, who has been in this role in an interim capacity, and work across the DHSC and NHS England.
Regarding his new posting, Mortimer said, “I have worked in the NHS for over 30 years, and look forward to working with colleagues across government and the service to develop our shared ambitions for the people and patients served by the NHS.
"I look back on my time at NHS Employers and the NHS Confederation with real gratitude for the support of colleagues and our members.”
NHS Employers will advertise for its new chief executive later this month, and interim leadership arrangements will be confirmed in due course.
NHS Confederation chief executive Matthew Taylor congratulated Mortimer on his new appointment.
“Danny has been an outstanding leader during his time as chief executive of NHS Employers, deputy chief executive of the NHS Confederation, and as interim chief executive of the NHS Confederation.
"He has played a pivotal role in championing the NHS workforce, supporting employers through some of the most challenging periods the service has ever faced, and helping to shape constructive dialogue across the health system.
"His appointment is richly deserved, and while he will be greatly missed within our organisation, the NHS as a whole will benefit enormously from his experience, insight and commitment."
