David Behan CBE appointed new Chief Executive of CQC
David Behan CBE, Director General of Social Care, Local Government and Care Partnerships at the Department of Health, has announced his departure to take up the role of Chief Executive at the Care Quality Commission.
David joined the Department in 2006. For the last six years, he has made a major contribution to the work of the Department as a member of the Departmental Board and the NHS Management Board. He has led on work to reform adult social care, and has worked closely with local government to deliver the system reforms set out in the Health and Social Care Act 2011.
In his previous role, he was the first Chief Inspector of the Commission for Social Care Inspection. Before that, David held a number of leadership and senior roles in the social care and health sector, building on the frontline experience he gained at the start of his career in 1978. His contribution to social care was recognised in 2004 by a CBE for services to social care.
Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said:
“I would like to thank David for his dedication and professionalism. He has made a huge contribution, both in designing the reform of the social care system so it is fit for the future, but also securing much better integration of health and social care.
“David will take his wealth of experience of health and social care to a vital role - making sure that not only are patients and service users getting high quality care, but that their dignity and experience is as important as their treatment and care. I wish David the best in his new role.”
Permanent Secretary Una O’Brien said:
“David has made an outstanding contribution, not only to the Department of Health, but to the entire social care sector. Over the past six years, he has tirelessly championed the importance of social care services that work alongside the health service and are fit for the future. He will leave an enduring legacy within the Department of Health. I wish him all the best for the future.”
David Behan said:
“It has been a privilege to work at the Department of Health for the last 6 great years, making a contribution to health and social care at the heart of Government. 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, whilst providing assurance that our health and care services achieve quality and outcomes for people which are amongst the best in the world.”
David is expected to take up his new role in July. Shaun Gallagher, currently Director of Social Care Policy, will temporarily fill David’s role until an open competition for the post is held.
Notes to editors
For media enquiries only, please contact the Department of Health press office on 020 7210 5416 or the Care Quality Commission press office on 020 7448 9401.