Brown has been leading the trust on an interim basis since former chief executive Phil Wood brought forward his retirement in September 2025.

Antony Kildare, chair, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, 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.

‘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.

‘We have strong foundations to build on, and colleagues across our trust are committed to making a real difference to patients and their families. We must continue to develop our strengths, learn from the challenges we face and focus on the improvements that matter most.'