RCOT announces Gary Waltham as new Chief Executive
We’re delighted to announce that Gary Waltham will be our new Chief Executive, joining us in the new year.
With more than two decades’ experience in the professional health sector including strengthening member-focused organisations, Gary brings a dynamic leadership style and a track record of success. Most recently as the Chief Executive of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Health, his strategic leadership guided the organisation to achieve its ambitious goals – empowering members and advancing the professions it represents.
We’re pleased to welcome Gary as the new Chief Executive of RCOT. His track record of visionary leadership in professional health organisations, deep commitment to our vision and strong alignment with our values, makes him exceptionally placed to lead RCOT into the future. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for health and care services, marked by both challenges, financial constraints and opportunities. Gary's leadership will be instrumental in strengthening our impact as we deliver for our members and champion occupational therapy. We look forward to welcoming him in the new year and introducing him to our members and wider community."
Odeth Richardson, Chair
The opportunity to work with a profession that makes such a positive difference to the lives of people and wider society is a major attraction for me. I’m absolutely delighted to have been appointed the Chief Executive of RCOT and to play my part, so members have the tools, resources and professional community they need to deliver life-changing interventions. I’m looking forward to joining in January 2026 and working with RCOT’s diverse membership – from new graduates to experienced leaders – to promote excellence, support members’ growth and strengthen occupational therapy’s contribution and visibility so we can improve outcomes for the individuals and communities we serve."
Gary Waltham
Gary's commitment to inclusion, innovation and person-centred care aligns with the core principles of occupational therapy. His leadership will drive RCOT forward as we continue to champion the profession and deliver meaningful impact for our members.
Gary will formally take up the post with us in the new year and we’ll update members with opportunities for you to meet and get to know him then.
About Gary Waltham
Gary has been the Chief Executive of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Health since November 2021. During that time, he launched a new three-year strategy focussing on how the FSRH enables its members to deliver high quality patient care; oversaw a comprehensive governance review and developed a digital transformation programme. Most recently he secured a mandate from members to re-position the organisation as the College of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare – with the enhanced independence, visibility and influence this will bring.
Prior to this, he was the Executive Director for six years, led a National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guideline development centre and worked to improve postgraduate medical and dental education. Gary holds a BSc in Sociology and an MSc in Human Resources.