Chair of Care Quality Commission announces resignation

7 September 2012

Dame Jo Williams, Chair of the Care Quality Commission, today announced her resignation.

“Having served on the Board of the CQC for almost four years, and as Chair for nearly three, I am proud of the progress we have made.

It has been a demanding and complex role, and there have undoubtedly been challenges as we registered 40,000 providers and brought the entire health and social care system under one set of standards.

But there is now clear evidence that our regulation is beginning to have an impact on the care that people receive, and it feels as if the organisation is moving into the next stage of its development.

This week, we have published a consultation document setting out proposals for CQC’s strategic direction for the next three years.

And I am delighted that that I have been able to appoint David Behan as CQC’s new Chief Executive - I am confident that he will continue to build on the progress that we have made in promoting and protecting the health and safety of people who use services. 

It has been a privilege to hold this important role but I now believe it is time to step aside and for a new Chair to lead CQC into the next stage.”

Sir Christopher Kelly, former Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health, said:

“Over a number of years of devoted public service, Jo Williams has shown tireless commitment to improving care for people, in particular people who rely on mental health and learning disabilities and their families and carers.

‘She has provided strong leadership to the CQC over the last three years, and leaves the organisation in an excellent position to deliver its crucial role as quality and safety regulator of the health and social care system.”

Andrew Dilnot, Commission of Funding of Care and Support, said:

“I have enormous admiration and respect for Dame Jo; her insight, experience and commitment were invaluable to the work of the Commission of Funding of Care and Support, which reported last summer.

‘While she will be much missed in her position as CQC Chair, I hope that Adult Social Care will continue to benefit from her contribution via other forums.”

Dame Jo will remain in post until a successor is appointed.