Julian has been the chief executive of NHS Providers since February 2023, prior to which he had a distinguished career as chief executive of several organisations, most recently 10 years as chief executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals.
Ian Dilks, chair of CQC, said, "I am very happy that CQC will make such a strong appointment to the role of chief executive. Julian was chosen from an outstanding field for his significant leadership experience and his experience of contributing to developments in the wider health and social care landscapes.
"Julian is an experienced and highly respected chief executive with a track record of leading organisations through challenging times, balancing the need to both improve short term performance and evolve strategy alongside a passionate commitment to improving people's care. He has a background in health but also has experience in and believes in the crucial importance of adult social care.
He added, "CQC has much work to do to rebuild trust with the public, providers and with our own staff. We also await the findings and recommendations of the final review from Penny Dash and of the review that we have commissioned from Professor Mike Richards.
“However, I am confident that Julian has the qualities and experience to lead the organisation through the challenges ahead and help to ensure that we make the right changes to become the strong effective regulator that people who use and work in health and social care services need and deserve."
Julian said, "I am delighted to be joining CQC at a time when effective regulation which supports improvement across the health and care sector and good, safe care for people who use services has never been more important.
"I have spent my career in the NHS and I will do my utmost to bring all I have learned to serve people who use services and to work with CQC staff and with providers to deliver high quality regulation which drives improvement across the health and care system."
Wes Streeting, health and social care secretary, said, "Julian's experience of turning round large, complex health organisations will be vital as the CQC seeks to urgently improve and win back public trust.
"Penny Dash's interim report highlighted serious failings in the regulator, forcing me to conclude it is no longer fit for purpose. Once published, I will consider Penny’s final report closely and set out further action this government will take. But I was determined to see action taken now to begin to turn the CQC around.
"I'm confident that Julian will provide the leadership staff in the CQC need to address this crisis, improve patient safety, and restore confidence in the regulator."
Julian's start date has not yet been confirmed.