Naidu has been deputy director of nursing and director of inclusion at The Royal London Hospital for the past three years, leading on areas including quality, governance, patient experience, equity, and inclusion.

She said: ‘I have been a nurse for almost 30 years, working across different continents and health systems, and bringing with me a broad and compassionate perspective on care and leadership.

'For me, nursing has always been about people. I believe that everyone has the right to outstanding healthcare, and that the best care happens when patients feel truly seen, supported, and empowered.'

Simmi will take up her new role in March 2026.