The Department of Health’s director general for social care, local government and care partnerships has been named as the new chief executive of the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
David Behan’s appointment was announced by Dame Jo Williams, current chairman of the CQC regulatory body.
Prior to working at the Department of Health, Behan was chief inspector of the Commission for Social Care Inspection and has served as president of the Association of Directors of Social Services and as director of social services for Greenwich, Middlesbrough and Cleveland local authorities.
He will officially take up the post in July, replacing Cynthia Bower, who announced her resignation in February.
Dame Jo said: “I'm delighted to confirm David as our new chief executive. The quality of applicants was exceptionally strong, but David's combination of frontline and regulatory experience, coupled with his commitment to making a difference for people who use services, made him an outstanding candidate.
“His clarity of vision and strong track record on delivery will be crucial to driving forward the next stage of CQC's development, as we continue to build on the progress already made, delivering increasing benefits to the health and social care system through our essential role in tackling poor care. I and my board very much look forward to working with him."
Behan added: "I am greatly looking forward to my next challenge of working with the CQC board, staff and stakeholders. I am delighted to have been given this opportunity to lead the organisation that takes action where services are poor and unsafe, while providing assurance that health and care services are fit to achieve quality and outcomes for people which are among the best in the world.”
