Grant Macdonald to Retire as Chief Executive of Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust later this year

Grant Macdonald, Chief Executive of Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, has announced his intention to retire from the NHS later this year.

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Grant has worked for the NHS for nearly four decades, training as a mental health nurse in the late 1980s and later holding senior executive positions across London and the South East for over two decades. His extensive clinical and leadership expertise has been instrumental in advancing care for patients and local communities.

Reflecting on his decision, Grant said: “I had always planned to retire from full-time work around my 60th birthday. With the Trust finalising its new strategy, I feel this is the right time to stand down. However, I hope to support the invaluable work of the NHS in some capacity in the future.

“My wife retired last year, and having more flexibility in family life is important to us. Making the announcement now allows the Trust to recruit a new Chief Executive in good time.

“Over the past four years at Oxford Health, I have been most proud of the extraordinary work my colleagues do day in, day out. In the most complex and challenging of circumstances, they treat and support some of the most vulnerable people in our society.”

David Walker, Chair of Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Grant has been an admirable leader, combining the personal dedication of a trained nurse with extensive managerial experience and a strong commitment to making healthcare effective.

“I regret his decision to retire and hope we can find someone equally dedicated to replace him. I will be discussing arrangements to recruit a successor to Grant with Andrea Young, who becomes chair in April.

Grant will remain focused on the Trust’s priorities and ensure a smooth transition over coming months.

Published: 14 January 2026