Chair - Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care is looking to appoint a new Chair of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). The HFEA is the UK-wide independent regulator for fertility treatment and embryo research.

As Chair you will ensure that the HFEA carries out its statutory functions and meets the Government’s priorities for the sector, complying with directions and guidance issued by the Secretary of State. Working with the Chief Executive, the Chair will set the tone for excellent working relationships between the HFEA and key stakeholders to ensure confidence in the work of the HFEA.

You will be responsible for providing guidance and support to all Authority members, ensuring their effective induction, support and development and advising the Department of Health and Social Care on their performance.

As Chair you will have a strong career track record of significant delivery and leadership at a senior level within the private, public or voluntary sectors. You will have the ability to lead the board of a national public body, delivering robust governance and accountability, and developing executive and board performance. You will have sound judgement, with an ability to critically analyse a wide range of information and make evidence-based, strategic decisions. You will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with others to drive improvements in your organisation and in the wider, complex landscape within which it operates.

The Chair of HFEA cannot be a registered Medical Practitioner or any person with current or past involvement with treatment or research using human sperm, eggs or embryos.

Remuneration will be £47,360 per annum for a time commitment of two to three days a week. The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care will determine the length of appointment, which may be for up to a maximum of 3 years.

For more information, please visit the Public Appointments website: 
http://publicappointments.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/9054

If you require an alternative format, please call Karen Dinsdale on 0113 254 5625 or Rachael Gingell on 0207 4849424 quoting the reference VAC-9054.

The closing date for applications is midday on Friday, 11 September 2026.

The Department of Health and Social Care values and promotes diversity. We encourage applications from talented individuals from all backgrounds and across the whole of the United Kingdom. Boards of public bodies are most effective when they reflect the diversity of views of the society they serve.