New non-executive directors boost for ICB

North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), the organisation responsible for planning and commissioning most NHS services in the region, has been boosted by the arrival of two highly experienced new non-executive directors.

Richard Barker - Non executive director

Richard Barker CBE joins after a long career at senior levels in the NHS, while Jill Murray brings extensive experience in social housing, neighbourhood transformation, homelessness and mental health.

They join existing non-executives Sir Pali Hungin, a Professor Emeritus at Newcastle University and former President of the British Medical Association, and David Stout OBE, whose long experience includes working as finance director for ten different NHS organisations.

The ICB's Chair, Professor Sir Liam Donaldson, said: "I'm delighted to welcome Richard and Jill, who will add an immense range and depth of expertise to our Board's discussions. Richard brings a wealth of experience from senior roles at NHS England and other bodies, with a strong interest in building the kind of partnerships that will help us improve people's health in our region.

"Jill's track record in social housing, neighbourhoods and homelessness will be of great value as we work with our partners to bring care closer to communities and tackle the wider causes of ill health, such as poor quality homes, employment and money worries." 

Richard Barker has had a 40-year career in the NHS, and recently retired as regional director of NHS England. He is a non-executive director for the Care Quality Commission and serves on the governing body of Sunderland University.

Richard said: "Having lived in and worked in the region for decades, I have a deep commitment to improving our people's health. Despite many improvements, we still lag behind most of the UK in health and life expectancy, but working closely with both public and private sector partners, the ICB can make a real difference to people's health in the North East and North Cumbria."

Jill Murray - Non exec director
Jill Murray recently retired as chief executive of Launchpad Veterans, after leading efforts to transform the charity that supports homeless armed forces veterans. A past President of the Chartered Institute of Housing, she was also the first chief executive of Byker Community Trust, leading the pioneering housing association for almost a decade.
Jill said: "Having lived and worked in the region for my whole life, I am passionate about public service and ensuring our NHS delivers high-quality outcomes for everyone.

"I am keen to work with colleagues and partners to reduce health inequalities, champion patient voices, and help our dedicated workforce to deliver the best possible care for our patients."