NHS England has appointed Louise Shepherd as regional director for its North West region.

Shepherd, who is has spent the past 16 years as chief executive of Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, will succeed Richard Barker following his recent retirement.

Shepherd successfully led the trust through a significant transformation, moving Alder Hey into a new hospital in 2015.

She has also served as co-chair of the National Children's Hospital Alliance, senior responsible officer for the Cheshire and Mersey Children's Transformation Programme Beyond, and established the initial Sustainability and Transformation Programme for Cheshire and Merseyside in 2016/17. Shepherd was appointed chair of the National Children's Transformation Programme by NHSE in March 2023.

Dame Jo Williams, chair of Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust said: ‘Louise's impact on Alder Hey since she joined us in 2008 has been nothing short of transformative. Throughout her tenure, Louise remained deeply connected to the Alder Hey family, embodying an ambitious and compassionate leadership style—qualities that have inspired and touched us all.'

Shepherd told Alder Hey staff: 'I also believe Alder Hey has a really clear vision for the future. It has a fantastic board, exciting and ambitious plans, fantastic leaders, great people and strong, supportive partners. Everything it needs to move forward with positivity and hope for the future.

'I look forward to continuing to work with and support colleagues in my new role to deliver the very best care and support we can for children and young people across the North West of England and nationally.'

Shepherd will take up her new role in November 2024.