Professor Susan Hopkins (UCL Division of Infection & Immunity) has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The announcement was made by Secretary of State for Health, Wes Streeting, and Professor Hopkins will formally take up the role in September.
Professor Hopkins is currently the Chief Medical Advisor at the UK HSA, where she leads the Clinical and Public Health Group whose objective is to provide professional health security, clinical and public health leadership.
She is also a Professor of Infectious Diseases and Health Security at UCL and continues to work clinically as a consultant in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.
Commenting on her appointment, Professor Hopkins said: "It is my honour and privilege to become the CEO of UKHSA. I step into this role with humility, excitement, and deep commitment to our mission-protecting people's health and security, quietly, consistently, and expertly.
"I'm incredibly proud of the work UKHSA does and of the world-class expertise we have right across the agency. My priorities are ensuring we continue to deliver excellence in health protection and security and strengthening our capabilities and systems to enhance how we support our communities."
As the new CEO, Professor Hopkins will take over from acting CEO Dyfed Alsop, who will revert to being Chief Operating Officer of UKHSA.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: "I am pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Susan Hopkins as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Professor Hopkins brings extensive experience in the field of infectious diseases and public health as well as significant leadership skills and knowledge of the agency.
"This new appointment is a key element to protecting our nation's health, including monitoring disease outbreaks, providing scientific expertise to inform policymaking and preparing the UK to fight emerging health threats.
"UKHSA's work feeds into the government's commitment to reform the healthcare system and create an NHS that is fit for the future, as part of the Plan for Change. I wish Professor Hopkins every success in her important new role."
Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty said: "Professor Hopkins has consistently provided outstanding leadership and expertise throughout a number of major public health challenges including COVID-19 and Mpox.
"Her considerable experience and technical knowledge will be invaluable in the role of UKHSA Chief Executive Officer. I very much look forward to continuing working with Professor Hopkins in her new role."
Professor Hopkins will take over from acting CEO Dyfed Alsop, who will revert to being Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO of UKHSA.
Alongside being an academic and clinician, Professor Hopkins career highlights include acting as UKHSA's first Chief Medical Advisor since 2021 and being National Strategic Response Director for COVID-19 (2020-22) and Deputy Director, Antimicrobial Resistance within Public Health England's National Infection Service (2018-20).
UKHSA is an executive agency, sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care, that prevents, prepares for, and responds to infectious diseases, and environmental hazards, to keep all our communities safe, save lives and protect livelihoods.
