The NHS Confederation has confirmed that Chief Executive Matthew Taylor will step down from his role in April 2026 after five years of service, marking the end of a transformative chapter for the health and care system across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Taylor, who has led the organisation since June 2021, has been a key advocate for the NHS during some of its most challenging years, including the COVID-19 recovery, waves of industrial action, and the run-up to the next General Election. Under his leadership, the Confederation strengthened its influence in shaping national health policy and supporting frontline care.
Leadership During a Period of Change
Throughout his tenure, Taylor played a central role in championing the legal establishment of Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), contributing to the Ten-Year Health Plan, and engaging with the Comprehensive Spending Review. He also pressed for greater capital investment in the health service, the decentralisation of decision-making, and stronger collaboration between health and social care providers.
The NHS Confederation expanded its membership under his leadership, enhancing representation across primary care, mental health, acute services, and integrated care systems. Taylor also supported the growth of place-based partnerships and neighbourhood health teams to deliver more locally tailored healthcare.
A Distinguished Public Service Career
Before joining the NHS Confederation, Taylor held senior roles in public service and policy. He served as Chief Adviser on Political Strategy to former Prime Minister Tony Blair, led the Institute for Public Policy Research, and authored the landmark Taylor Review of Modern Employment Practices in 2016, commissioned by the UK Government.
Reflecting on his decision to step down, Taylor said:
“By the time I step down, I will have had five fantastic years at the NHS Confederation. We have reasserted the organisation as a constructive and influential voice in shaping health policy and practice, while empowering local health and care organisations to innovate and collaborate. I am proud of what we have achieved together and honoured to have served our members during this period.”
Succession Planning and Legacy
The NHS Confederation’s Board of Trustees will meet in October 2025 to begin succession planning. Updates will be provided to members, partners, and staff in due course.
Lord Victor Adebowale, Chair of the NHS Confederation, praised Taylor’s leadership:
“Matthew has been an outstanding chief executive and an unparalleled advocate for our members. He has steered the organisation through significant challenges while offering a hopeful vision for the future. The organisation that Matthew leaves is vastly different to the one he joined, and his contribution has been vital.”
Taylor departs leaving behind a strengthened organisation with an influential role in national health policy and a growing portfolio of leadership and improvement programmes.
