New NHS operations chief takes charge in Harrogate

By GlobeBids News Desk

Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust has appointed Julia Nixon as its new chief operating officer following a national recruitment process. She joined the Trust on Monday, 13 July 2026, with more than 24 years of NHS experience across Yorkshire.

Nixon takes responsibility for the day-to-day running of HDFT’s clinical services. The executive role also contributes to the Trust’s strategic direction and plans for developing patient services.

Oversight of clinical services

The chief operating officer is responsible for supporting the delivery of safe, effective and compassionate care across the Trust. Nixon will oversee complex operational services while working with clinical teams, partner organisations and communities across HDFT’s geographical area.

Chief executive Jonathan Coulter said her record of leading services, improving performance and maintaining a focus on patients and staff made her a strong fit for the organisation. He said her experience would support HDFT as it develops services and responds to pressures facing the NHS.

More than two decades in Yorkshire healthcare

Before joining HDFT, Nixon spent two years as associate chief operating officer for remote care at Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust. She led services supporting patients through remote and urgent-care pathways.

She previously worked at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust for 11 years. Her posts there included clinical lead for transformation, operations director for urgent and emergency care and cancer services, and deputy chief operating officer.

HDFT said Nixon has experience leading large multidisciplinary teams, developing high-performing services and delivering operational improvements.

Russell Nightingale’s move to Tees

Nixon succeeds Russell Nightingale, who had served as HDFT’s chief operating officer since April 2021. He left earlier in 2026 to become chief delivery officer at University Hospital Tees.

Nixon said she looked forward to supporting frontline teams and working with colleagues, partners and local communities to build on existing improvement work and shape future services across the area covered by HDFT.

Source: Harrogate and District NHS News