New Chief Executive named at Leeds hospital trust

An NHS trust is set to appoint a permanent chief executive as it faces an inquiry into the care of mums and babies.

Brendan Brown will take the top job Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, the organisation has announced.

Mr Brown was already running the trust, which runs St James’s University Hospital and Leeds General Infirmary, as interim chief executive.

Antony Kildare, who chairs the organisation, said: “Over the past year, Brendan has provided strong leadership and support for the trust, helping us navigate a period of significant challenge and change.

“I am extremely grateful for his passion, commitment and the contribution he has made to everything we have achieved during this time. I am certain this will continue.”

The Leeds trust is subject to an independent review into maternity and neonatal services, led by expert midwife Donna Ockenden.

It was launched following concerns raised by families and a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection which rated maternity services as “inadequate” in June 2025.

There was further criticism in a CQC inspection of how well-led the trust was later that year.

Safety concerns were also raised over the care of black and Asian women in a separate NHS England report in November.

The trust said it was making improvements and promised “cultural change” in the organisation.

Mr Kildare said: “Brendan’s permanent appointment provides continuity of leadership and an opportunity to maintain momentum, work together on our priorities and make a lasting difference to the services we provide and the communities we serve.

“This is particularly important as we prepare for the independent review of our maternity and neonatal services.”

Mr Brown joined the Leeds trust from Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust in September 2025.

He replaced Prof Phil Wood, who’s retirement after more than 30 years in the NHS was announced last July.