Rob Okunnu to step down as RCPCH chief executive after nearly seven years
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Rob Okunnu, will be leaving the organisation at the end of December 2025. Mr Okunnu has been with the College for nearly seven years, initially joining in March 2019 as Director of Policy and External Affairs. Over time, his role expanded to Director of Membership, Policy and External Affairs before stepping into the interim CEO position in October 2022 and being formally appointed CEO in January 2023.
During his tenure as CEO, Rob Okunnu led the staff and collaborated closely with the College’s Senior Officers and Board of Trustees to advance the organisation’s mission, vision, and strategy, supporting paediatrics and child health on a national and international scale. According to Joanne Shaw, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Mr Okunnu played a pivotal role in steering the College through a challenging period marked by significant change. Shaw highlighted his contribution to modernising the College’s infrastructure and enhancing member services to accommodate the institution’s growing membership. She expressed gratitude for his dedication, calm leadership, and collaborative style, stressing that his presence will be greatly missed as the College continues its strategic journey.
Reflecting on his achievements, Rob Okunnu conveyed pride in having contributed to the College’s ongoing transformation and sustainability planning. He underscored the importance of collaboration with members, staff, trustees, children, young people, and external partners, describing it as a privilege to work alongside so many committed individuals. “Right now, I feel the time is right to hand over the mantle as the College’s forward journey continues,” he said.
Rob Okunnu brings to the role a broad spectrum of experience spanning over 20 years in senior leadership positions across diverse sectors. Before joining RCPCH, he held roles at organisations such as Water UK, Tesco PLC, MSD pharmaceutical company, and the British Medical Association. He is a Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Chartered PR Practitioner and Fellow, as well as a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Additionally, he serves as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of the Independent Schools Inspectorate.
The College’s President, Professor Steve Turner, extended his thanks on behalf of RCPCH members, acknowledging Mr Okunnu’s hard work in supporting the College’s ambitions for paediatrics and child health. Turner noted their effective partnership over several years and wished him all the best in his future endeavours.
To ensure continuity during the leadership transition, Ian Parrett, the Executive Director of Corporate Services, will serve as Interim CEO from January 2026 until a new permanent CEO is appointed. Mr Parrett joined RCPCH in October 2024 and oversees finance, procurement, facilities, governance, and income diversification. He is a qualified Chartered Certified Accountant with over 25 years of experience in the higher and further education sectors in the UK and internationally. Prior to RCPCH, he held senior financial and operational roles including Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer at the London Institute of Banking & Finance.
The Board of Trustees is currently leading the recruitment process to find the next CEO, aiming to build on the vision and foundation laid during Rob Okunnu’s time in the role. This transition marks a significant moment for RCPCH as it continues to adapt and grow in its mission to support paediatrics and child health.