Anne O’Connor appointed as next HSE chief

Anne O’Connor has been appointed as the next chief executive of the HSE.

She said she was “privileged” to be appointed to the role at a time of “challenge” for healthcare.

Ms O’Connor replaces Bernard Gloster, former head of the Tusla child and family agency, who is to retire from the public service after working in the sector for almost 38 years.

Ms O’Connor is expected take up the role next spring.

She had previously worked as the HSE’s chief operations officer, and was a key figure in managing the health service response to the Covid-19 pandemic as well as the cyberattack on the service in May 2021.

She left the HSE in June 2022 to become managing director of VHI Health and Wellbeing.

She trained and worked as an occupational therapist in the UK, and had previously worked in the Irish health service from 1995.

Ms O’Connor said of her appointment: “I am very privileged to be appointed to this role at a time of great opportunity and challenge for healthcare in Ireland.

“I look forward to leading the organisation and the reform programme already under way by supporting our staff to deliver quality healthcare services efficiently to meet the healthcare needs of the people of Ireland.”

The HSE said she was appointed “following an open, competitive” selection process.

Ciaran Devane, chairman of the HSE board, said: “I am very pleased to welcome Anne back to the HSE.

“As well as her invaluable experience with VHI, her extensive career with the HSE as an occupational therapist, national director for mental health services and as chief operations officer for the HSE through the Covid pandemic will stand her in good stead as she leads the HSE on its journey of reform.”

Health Minister Jennifer Carroll McNeill said: “Anne has made a significant contribution to healthcare in Ireland and she now brings her immense capability and experience to leading the HSE.

“I look forward to working closely with Anne to further strengthen a service that truly serves its patients, values the immense contribution and dedication of our healthcare workers and delivers high-quality, equitable care for all.”