NHS England Medical Director Stephen Powis to Step Down After Seven Years

Powis, a key figure during the Covid-19 pandemic, announces his departure as NHS leadership undergoes significant changes.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS England's national medical director, will leave his role in July 2025 after more than seven years in post.
Powis became a prominent public figure during the Covid-19 pandemic, appearing at numerous government press briefings and overseeing the rollout of the first vaccine outside clinical trials.
His resignation follows the recent announcement by Amanda Pritchard, NHS England's chief executive, that she will also be stepping down, raising concerns about a leadership gap in the organization.
Powis emphasized that his decision to step down was long-planned and unrelated to Pritchard's departure, expressing confidence in the leadership of her interim successor, Sir Jim Mackey.
During his tenure, Powis was a vocal advocate for patient safety and public health, addressing issues such as cosmetic surgery risks, weight-loss drug regulations, and misinformation spread by influencers.