Sarah Horan appointed as Chief Midwifery Officer for Scotland

• Providing professional leadership for midwifery across Scotland
  
  

Sarah Horan has been appointed as the new Chief Midwifery Officer for Scotland, bringing over 20 years of senior nursing and midwifery leadership to the role.

Ms Horan currently serves as Executive Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals at NHS Borders. She will take up the post in September 2026.

Public Health Minister Maree Todd said:

"I would like to offer my congratulations to Ms Horan on her appointment as Chief Midwifery Officer for Scotland.

This is a hugely significant time for maternity care in Scotland - we have commissioned an independent review that will deliver real and tangible change for women and their families, and I know Ms Horan's experience and leadership will be central to delivering that.

I look forward to working with her in the years ahead to champion the vital contribution of midwifery and continue advancing high quality care for babies, children and families across Scotland.

Sarah Horan said:

"I am delighted to be appointed as Chief Midwifery Officer for Scotland. Midwifery is at the heart of delivering safe, compassionate care for women, babies and families, and I am committed to supporting our workforce to continue doing the exceptional work they do every day.

I look forward to supporting midwives across Scotland to drive forward high quality maternity care."

Background

• The current Interim Chief Midwifery Officer, Gillian Morton MBE, will continue in post until Ms Horan takes up her position.
• The Chief Midwifery Officer provides professional leadership for midwifery across Scotland, supporting NHS Boards and advising Scottish Ministers on maternity and neonatal care.
• The independent review to improve maternity care will examine how maternity services can better meet women's needs across the country, including how care is provided in rural and island areas. The full scope and terms of reference will be published by the Chair and is expected to focus on the views and experiences of women, their families and staff.