Chief Executive

Overview

Chief Executive
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health

Location:

London
Salary: £175,000 per annum

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is a leading professional membership body and registered charity, representing more than 24,000 paediatricians in the UK and worldwide. The College exists to support paediatricians and improve child health and wellbeing. It plays a significant role in influencing policy, advancing paediatric education and training, setting professional standards, and championing the voices and rights of children and young people.

RCPCH has a track record of sustained impact through research, advocacy and global partnerships. The organisation is in the first phase of an ambitious 10-year strategy to support paediatricians and achieve better outcomes for children and young people.

RCPCH is seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer to provide strategic and cultural leadership at a pivotal moment for the College, its members and for child health.

• Lead strong organisational performance, exemplary governance and robust financial stewardship of the College’s approximately £20m annual income.
• Direct a multi-disciplinary workforce of around 180, providing high-quality, responsive services for members and effective delivery against strategic priorities.
• Lead the development of the next phase of the College Strategy with the members’ Council and the Board of Trustees, translating it into impactful outcomes and sustained momentum.
• Strengthen RCPCH’s profile and influence across the UK and internationally, developing trusted relationships with key stakeholders and partners.
• Ensure the voices of children and young people remain integral, informing policy and practice as the College continues to innovate and lead.

• Senior executive leadership experience in complex, regulated or mission-driven environments such as healthcare, education, professional or membership bodies, or the wider public and charitable sectors.
• Strong track record in strategic delivery, culture development, and organisational leadership.
• Deep capability in governance, risk and financial management.
• Politically astute, inclusive and values-driven leadership with strong personal credibility.
• Excellent judgment and clear communication; ability to build confidence and trust at the highest levels.
• Motivation to deliver lasting change for children and young people.

The appointment includes a salary of £175,000 per annum, and is based in London. The College offers a comprehensive rewards package aligned with senior leadership roles.

For more information please click apply on website. For a confidential conversation about this role, please contact our recruitment partners at Gatenby Sanderson:

• Stephanie Crossland (stephanie.c)
• Hilda Gjika (hil)
• Michelle Atkinson (michelle.)

Closing date: 5pm, Monday 23 February 2026.