The appointment follows trust chief executive, Professor Tim Orchard, becoming chief executive of the North West London Acute Provider Group. Redhead was appointed on an interim basis while the group becomes established, for at least the next 12 months.

Redhead is currently medical director at the trust alongside his national role as NHS England's clinical director for urgent and emergency care. He joined the trust in 2004 as a consultant in emergency medicine and moved on to a range of leadership roles, including clinical programme group director for medicine, divisional director for investigative and supporting sciences and associate medical director for professional development.

Prof Orchard said: ‘Julian brings a wealth of experience as both a clinician and senior leader plus a deep understanding of the wider health and life sciences environment. His appointment will bring a continued focus on ensuring high-quality, person-centred care, empowering our clinicians and wider workforce and working in close partnership with our patients and local communities.'

Prof Redhead said: 'We have a fantastic workforce, who deliver brilliant outcomes and innovations for patients. I want to help us build on that by making the most of group opportunities for closer collaboration and shared learning. I am also committed to continuing the great progress we have made on our organisational culture, especially in terms of being open, inclusive and responsive.'

The North West London Acute Provider Group will be established formally on 1 April 2026. Prof Redhead and Prof Orchard will begin to move into their new roles over the coming weeks. Professor Raymond Anakwe will continue in his role as medical director.