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HSE's New Leader: Ex-COO Returns for Healthcare Reform
15 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Anne O'Connor, former HSE chief operations officer, appointed new HSE chief.
- O'Connor led health service response to Covid-19 and a major cyberattack.
- She takes over from Bernard Gloster, who is retiring after 38 years.
Anne O'Connor is set to become the next chief executive of the Health Service Executive (HSE), taking up the position next spring. This appointment follows an open, competitive selection process, according to the HSE. O'Connor brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as the HSE's chief operations officer.
During her prior tenure, she played a crucial role in managing the health service's response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the significant cyberattack experienced in May 2021. Most recently, she was the managing director of VHI Health and Wellbeing, having left the HSE in June 2022.
O'Connor will succeed Bernard Gloster, who is retiring after a distinguished career of almost 38 years in the public service. Health Minister Jennifer Carroll McNeill welcomed O'Connor, highlighting her significant contributions to Irish healthcare and her capability to lead the HSE through its reform journey.
