NHS England Cyber Chief Set to Depart from Position

Key Takeaways

Mike Fell, director of national cyber operations at NHS England, is leaving to become chief security officer at the Department of Work and Pensions, effective mid-May.
During his tenure, Fell transformed the NHS Digital Data Security Centre into the NHSE Cyber Operations team, enhancing cyber resilience across the sector.
Fell’s departure follows other significant exits from NHSE, prompting a reassessment of leadership roles within the organization.

Leadership Transition at NHS England

Mike Fell, who has served as the director of national cyber operations at NHS England since 2022, has announced his resignation. He will assume the role of chief security officer at the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) in mid-May. In his new position, Fell will be responsible for overseeing security and data protection for approximately 25 million customers and around 100,000 staff and contractors, while also managing nearly 900 physical locations.

Fell’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming the NHS Digital Data Security Centre into the NHSE Cyber Operations team, a move aimed at bolstering cyber resilience across the NHS. His tenure was marked by intense challenges and rewarding achievements, allowing him to work collaboratively with various organizations to navigate complex security landscapes.

In his words, “The past four years have been intense, challenging, and rewarding in equal measure. I have had the privilege of working with thoughtful, capable people across multiple organizations and cultures.” He acknowledged the collaborative efforts and mutual problem-solving that characterized his time at NHS England, stating that the cyber division remains a model for effective cyber defense across the sector.

Ming Tang, interim chief digital and information officer at NHSE, praised Fell’s contributions, noting, “Mike has been fundamental in developing cyber operations into the exemplary team it is today.” His expertise in the field has earned the admiration of his colleagues and has significantly advanced cybersecurity measures within the NHS and care sector.

Fell’s departure is part of a broader leadership shift at NHS England, as it follows announcements from other high-profile figures within the organization. Ming Tang plans to leave in April, while Sonia Patel, the chief technology officer, will exit her role in March. The NHSE has indicated that details regarding leadership transition arrangements will be communicated in due time.

Fell’s new responsibilities at DWP will involve identifying key security and data protection risks, along with establishing policies and standards to support the delivery of crucial pension and benefit systems. This move marks a significant next step in his career, as he looks forward to tackling new challenges in a different governmental environment.

For more detailed insights on cyber resilience and recovery in the NHS, readers can access the latest Insights Report available on the NHSE website.

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