John Lawlor to chair the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust

John Lawlor, the former Chief Executive of Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust, rated ‘outstanding’ twice by the Care Quality Commission, will be joining the Tavistock and Portman from the beginning of June as Chair following confirmation of his selection by the Trust’s Council of Governors.

The recently retired hospital and community mental health trust Chief Executive will be taking over from Paul Burstow who is stepping down at the end of his second and final term.

John has a long and distinguished career as a leader in the NHS, but also early experiences in teaching and in the Department of Health. He is a passionate champion of mental health and disability services and a successful system leader.

Paul Burstow, the outgoing Chair, said: “It has been a privilege to have served as Chair of such an iconic organisation for the past six and half years. I am delighted to be passing the baton to such an experienced and capable new Chair for the Trust. I am confident that the future of the organisation is in good hands.”

John Lawlor said: “I am very excited at the opportunity to be joining the Tavistock and Portman as Chair. The Trust has a long and distinguished role in the development of mental health services and training in this country and internationally. I look forward to working with the Board, Governors and staff, as well as our partners in the Integrated Care System, to help the Trust make a relevant and effective contribution to improving mental health and wellbeing.”