Robin Porter appointed as chair of Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board

Robin Porter, former chief executive of Luton Council, has been appointed as the new chair of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board.

He was appointed following a public recruitment process to appoint a successor to Dr Rima Makarem, who stepped down from her post in December 2024.

Robin brings a wealth of experience in public service and leadership to this pivotal role in the integrated care system.

Robin worked at Luton Council in a series of director roles for 11 years, before being appointed chief executive in 2019 where he drove the town-wide vision of Luton 2040, creating a place where everyone can thrive, and no-one lives in poverty.  He announced his decision to step down from his role at the council in February this year.

His tenure at Luton Council has been marked by his steadfast drive and commitment to community development and collaborative partnerships, and he has been an active member of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board since July 2022, where he has significantly and positively contributed to NHS service planning and resource allocation.

Clare Panniker, regional director for NHS England in the East of England, said:

“I am very pleased to welcome Robin as the new chair for Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes ICB. Robin brings a wealth of experience from local government, providing strong leadership and dedication to improving our services, which will benefit both the ICB and the wider region in delivering even better care for patients.”

Felicity Cox, chief executive of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, added:

“It has been a pleasure to work with Robin as a partner over the past three years and I have witnessed firsthand his dedication to collaboration and innovation in health and social care.  He has a deep commitment to the people and communities we serve and will bring a fresh perspective to support the integration of our public services locally – particularly as we work to deliver on Government’s 10-Year Plan for Health.

“I would like to put on record my thanks to Manjeet Gill, who has stepped up as acting chair for the past four months. Her steady leadership and commitment to our people and communities has been invaluable during this time of change.”

As chair of the Integrated Care Board, Robin will oversee the strategic direction and governance of the system, ensuring that health and social care services across Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes are effectively coordinated to meet the needs of local communities.

Speaking about his appointment, Robin Porter said:

“I am honoured to be appointed chair of the Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board. These are difficult times for health and care services, but there is opportunity and reward for those who are bold.

“Our area is growing by two and a half times the national average and there are significant health inequalities within our communities. If we’re to deliver on Government’s 10-Year Plan and see a real shift in the care we deliver – as outlined by Lord Darzi, then we need to innovate and integrate, two things I’m looking forward to bringing to the table.

“We must rise to the challenge, and I look forward to continuing to work with my friends, colleagues and partners to deliver for local people in the place I live in and care so much about.”

Robin will take over from Manjeet Gill, who has led the ICB as acting chair since January.