NMC Council Chair Search and Selection

We have an exciting vacancy for the Chair of Council. This prestigious role is of the utmost importance not only for the future of the NMC but for everyone on our register, the people they care for and the public throughout England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

The Chair will lead a Council whose work has an impact on the wider health and wellbeing of the whole of the United Kingdom. It is a fantastic opportunity for a truly committed and dedicated individual to effect long lasting positive change in our society.

We are seeking external expertise in very senior Non-Executive Chair/Director level public appointments to help us find the right person to take forward the NMC. Given the importance of the role it is imperative that both the process and the appointment secure credibility and respect from a wide range of stakeholders including the professionals on our register and government.

Under the legal constitution of the Council this vacancy must be filled by either: • A lay applicant, that is, someone who is not and never has been, a registered nurse, midwife or nursing associate; OR • One of the existing five registrant Council members and the designate member for Scotland. This is because we do not have a registrant vacancy, we are at our maximum of 6 registrants.

The focus of the search is therefore on lay applicants. Candidates can be from any of the four countries of the UK (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland).

They do not have to have a background in health or regulation. The selection process must be carried out to the highest standards of quality, transparency and fairness.

All selection decisions must be made on merit; the process must be fair; transparent and open; and must inspire confidence. The process must also take into account the obligations of the NMC under the Equality Act 2010.