Fisher, who has worked in public service for 42 years, including roles in the civil service and senior leadership positions in the Cabinet Office, the Department for Work and Pensions, and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, announced his intention to retire in March 2026 in September.

An NHS Greater Manchester spokesperson said: ‘We can confirm that chief executive, Mark Fisher is currently suspended on a precautionary basis whilst an internal process takes place in accordance with our whistleblowing, HR and governance frameworks.

‘Given no findings have been made at this stage it is essential that no assumptions are drawn. Due to confidentiality and fairness to all parties we are unable to comment further at this time.'

Colin Scales, deputy chief executive, is taking over on an interim basis.