Today Health Data Research has announced the appointment of Lord James O’Shaughnessy to its non-Executive Board.
Following an extensive recruitment and search process, James will join the current members of the Board and will share responsibility for the effective governance and strategic direction of Health Data Research UK, working closely with Director Andrew Morris and the Executive Committee.
James brings a wealth of valuable experience and knowledge to Health Data Research UK, most recently as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Health. In this role, he took responsibility over the life sciences policy, industrial strategy and NHS innovation. He also brings expertise from the education sector, including as founder of a small chain of state primary free school, and having served as the No.10 Director of Policy to Prime Minister Rt Hon David Cameron.
He also has experience as a patron and advisor on the joint strategy board for the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission as well as being a visiting professor at the Institute of Global Health Innovation at Imperial College London. This teamed with his parliamentary status will provide Health Data Research with an unique perspective within its Board.
Chair of Health Data Research UK Graham Spittle said of the appointment:
“I’m delighted to welcome James to our Board. He brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in this field and a real enthusiasm for this vital work that will drive innovation in the UK and benefit patients.”
His expertise is extensive and crosses many different sectors and we are looking forward to the breadth of discussion this will bring to future meetings.
(As a former Minister of the Crown Lord O’Shaughnessy sought approval for this role from the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (ACOBA). Their approval letter canbe found here)
