The General Dental Council (GDC) has launched recruitment campaigns for its next chair of council and two council member positions.

The regulator is working to identify a successor to Lord Toby Harris as chair, who can be either lay or registrant, and two lay council members.

Applications are open until February 24, 2025, for candidates with an interest in dental regulation who share the GDC’s vision for a system of regulation that supports the provision of safe and effective oral healthcare.

The regulator has said it welcomes applications from candidates who have a diverse range of backgrounds and can bring fresh perspectives and experience to its council.

Chair of council

The chair will lead the council in shaping its strategic vision to provide robust scrutiny of operations to protect public safety and confidence in dental services.

The successful candidate, who could be either lay or a dental professional, will bring significant non-executive board-level experience, a proven ability to lead through change, and exceptional stakeholder management skills.

The chair’s responsibilities include fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement, working closely with council members and the executive team, and representing the GDC in external engagements across the UK to build trust with stakeholders.

The GDC has said a background in the public or regulatory sector, combined with strategic thinking, strong governance credentials, and a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and good governance will be essential in this pivotal leadership role.

Council members

Council members are appointed for an initial four-year term, with a maximum tenure of eight years. None of the roles have any geographic restrictions, as other members currently fulfil regional representation requirements.

The Privy Council will appoint the successful candidates after the GDC-managed recruitment process, with the Professional Standards Authority providing assurance on the process.

In September 2025, Lord Toby Harris will complete his four-year term as chair, while Sheila Kumar and Anne Heal will conclude their eight-year terms as lay council members.

For more information visit https://www.saxbam.com/candidate-opportunities/

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