New DHSC Chief Officer announced

Paul Richardson relocating to the Island and starting in October

The Department of Health and Social Care has a new Chief Officer.

Paul Richardson, former Deputy Director of Strategy for the UK Department of Health & Social Care, has been appointed to the role.

He'll be relocating to the Island and starting in October.

Previously, he was an Incident Director on the UK response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

DHSC Minister Lawrie Hooper says he's 'pleased to announce the appointment', adding 'Paul’s wealth of experience and expertise makes him a valuable asset and we look forward to welcoming him into the Department. I’ve no doubt he will make a significant and positive impact for health and social care in the Isle of Man.’

Mr Richardson has thanked the Minister, as well as Chief Minister Alfred Cannan and the Isle of Man Government for 'the opportunity to take up this very important role in a remarkable and beautiful place.'

He adds: ‘I have spent my whole career working in the NHS and as a senior civil servant in national government in the UK. My heart lies in public service, and it will be the greatest privilege to serve the people of the Isle of Man. While I grew up in Lancaster, I have friends and family on the island so I know it well and have visited on many occasions.

 ‘I look forward to working with the team at DHSC, Ministers, colleagues in Government, Manx Care and other partners to deliver the Government’s vision to provide the community with access to a comprehensive, high quality and fully integrated health and social care system both now and into the future.’