The government has announced the appointment of Lawrence Tallon as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Lawrence will officially assume his role on 1 April 2025, succeeding Dame June Raine DBE, who is retiring after leading the organisation since 2019.
Bringing a wealth of experience to the role, Lawrence demonstrated a strong commitment to healthcare innovation and patient safety throughout his career. He is currently the Deputy Chief Executive at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, a position he has held since March 2020. Additionally, he serves as the Managing Director of the Shelford Group, representing some of England’s leading NHS teaching hospitals.
Commenting on the appointment, Chair of the MHRA Professor Anthony Harnden said:
“I am delighted to welcome Lawrence Tallon as the new MHRA Chief Executive.
“Lawrence is an impressive leader who brings with him a wealth of experience from across the healthcare sector, nationally and globally. I look forward to working with him to maintain the UK as a global centre of excellence in life sciences and strengthening safety systems in the best interests of patients and the public.
“I would also like to give enormous thanks to Dame June Raine, who is handing the baton on to Lawrence after more than 5 years of being MHRA CEO and nearly 40 illustrious years at the Agency. June’s leadership and unwavering commitment to patient and public health cannot be overstated.”
Prior to his current roles, Lawrence served as Director of Strategy, Planning and Performance at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust. His extensive experience also includes working within the Department of Health and Social Care alongside ministers and NHS leaders. This diverse background has equipped him with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing modern healthcare systems.
Lawrence’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the MHRA as it continues to enhance its position as a sovereign regulator and strengthen its international partnerships. Under his leadership, the agency will focus on accelerating patient access to innovative medicines and medical devices while maintaining the highest standards of safety and effectiveness.
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