October 12, 2026

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust has announced the appointment of a permanent Chief Executive.

David Burns is the current Chief Executive of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council and has spent his career in public service, with a background in local government in both Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Mr Burns’ start date with the Trust will be confirmed in due course.

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Burns said: “I am absolutely delighted to be taking up this new role at what is a critical time for Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland.

“I know I am joining a very capable and talented leadership team within the Trust and I am excited by the prospect of working with them to continue to improve services through innovation and transformation to ensure we continue to deliver the highest standards of care to the people who rely on us every day.”

The Trust’s Interim Chief Executive, Suzanne Pullins, said: “David brings with him a wealth of leadership experience, a strong track record of delivering results and a genuine commitment to public service.

“The Northern Trust is fortunate to have talented and dedicated staff who work tirelessly every day for patients and their families and our wider community. I know David will greatly value their expertise and commitment and will work with them to lead the organisation through the opportunities and challenges ahead.

“Being Chief Executive of the Northern Trust has been the privilege of my career, and I wish David every success as he prepares to take up this important role.”

Notes to Editors

Suzanne Pullins has served as Interim Chief Executive of the Northern Health and Social Care Trust since October 2025 following the departure of former Chief Executive Jennifer Welsh who left to take up the role of Chief Executive with Belfast Trust.