The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has appointed Professor Susan Hopkins as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and she is expected to commence her new role in September.
She will take over from acting CEO Dyfed Alsop, who will revert to being Chief Operating Officer of UKHSA.
Professor Hopkins is an infectious disease clinician, epidemiologist and public health leader. She has served as Chief Medical Advisor at UKHSA since November 2021.
She played pivotal roles during the UK’s COVID-19 response, serving as Incident Director at Public Health England, Interim Chief Medical Advisor to NHS Test and Trace, and Strategic Response Director during the pandemic.
Professor Hopkins said, "It is my honour and privilege to become the CEO of UKHSA. I step into this role with humility, excitement, and deep commitment to our mission—protecting people’s health and security, quietly, consistently, and expertly."
Welcoming her appointment, health secretary Wes Streeting said, "Professor Hopkins brings extensive experience in the field of infectious diseases and public health as well as significant leadership skills and knowledge of the agency.
"This new appointment is a key element to protecting our nation’s health, including monitoring disease outbreaks, providing scientific expertise to inform policymaking, and preparing the UK to fight emerging health threats."
Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty said, "Professor Hopkins’ leadership will prove critical to UKHSA as it navigates the next period of health security challenges, as set out in its recent strategic plan."
