NHS supply chain appoints Richard Evans as commercial executive director

Experienced leader to drive transformation in healthcare supply chain through new NHS  appointment

NHS Supply Chain today announced the appointment of Richard Evans as its new commercial executive director.

With 20 years’ experience in procurement and commercial management across the public and private sectors, Evans will lead the continued transformation of commercial capabilities at NHS Supply Chain.

Evans will oversee the 500 strong commercial function of the organization, focusing on standardization and simplification to create value and deliver optimal supply chain solutions for patient care.

Following significant change over the past 18 months, where more than 450 colleagues from eight outsourced procurement teams were brought in-house, Evans will oversee the continued evolution of NHS Supply Chain’s operating practices to reduce complexity, grow capabilities, and employ best practices across the commercial directorate.

He joins NHS Supply Chain from an executive leadership role at global procurement and supply chain consultancy Proxima, with experience across retail, financial services, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.

NHS Supply Chain’s chief executive Andrew New welcomed Evans, emphasizing the importance of his appointment in delivering the organization’s ambitions, including embedding commercial excellence, driving savings, and realizing value-based procurement.

“I’m delighted to welcome Richard to our executive team," New said.

"His role is key to supporting the delivery of our ambitious strategy of growth and savings delivery, as we align to the changing needs of the NHS.”

Evans expressed his excitement to join NHS Supply Chain during a crucial period of change, stating:

“It is fantastic to join NHS Supply Chain at such an important time of change. I am excited and look forward to working with colleagues to transform NHS Supply Chain’s commercial capabilities and support the NHS and its patients by simplifying what is a complex healthcare supply chain.”

New also recognized outgoing interim commercial executive director Bilal Shaykh, who has filled the role since October 2023.

“Bilal has successfully led the commercial function through a period of extraordinary change, and I thank him for his contribution over that period,” New said.

Evans will commence his role on 29 April 2024.