Julia Corkey appointed as Executive Director of Communications and Engagement for NMC

The Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) has appointed Julia Corkey as its substantive Executive Director of Communications and Engagement.

As a member of our senior leadership team, Julia plays a key role in helping the NMC with the continuing turnaround of the organisation.

Julia is a senior leader with over 25 years’ experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, public service transformation and high-profile event delivery. 

At Westminster City Council, she served as Executive Director of Policy, Performance and Communications, leading an award-winning team spanning communications, public affairs, customer services, marketing, digital, city events, policy, strategy, research and insight. 

Julia also co-founded Westco, a public sector communications consultancy; launched the income-generating City Promotions Programme; and co-created West End Live - a flagship cultural event attracting more than 500,000 people. 

She later served as Chief Executive of ICC Belfast, where she led post-pandemic recovery and embedded a refreshed vision, mission and values.

Julia said: “I’m proud to have joined the NMC at such a pivotal moment - a time to build on the reform already underway with honest reflection and decisive action, following the findings of the Independent Culture Review. It’s a moment to help shape a culture that is open, inclusive and fair. 

“As the NMC listens more, learns more and connects more meaningfully with the people it serves across all four nations, I’m committed to supporting the Council, Interim Chief Executive and Registrar Paul Rees and colleagues in this vital work.”

She added: “Together, we will build a best-in-class regulator - one that registrants trust, staff feel proud to work for and that the public have confidence in. 

“Nurses, midwives and nursing associates care for us all at some of life’s most vulnerable moments.

“It’s a privilege to help strengthen the organisation that stands behind these dedicated professionals.”

NMC Interim Chief Executive and Registrar, Paul Rees MBE said: “I am delighted to welcome Julia to the NMC at a pivotal time for our continuing efforts to turn the organisation around. 

“She brings a wealth of experience in strategic communications and change leadership. She also brings political acuity and a deep commitment to rebuilding trust through meaningful communication and engagement. 

“We’re already making strong progress in turning the NMC around – but there’s still a great deal of work ahead.”

He concluded: “Julia’s appointment will enhance our leadership capacity, and help us fulfil our commitments to our employees, the public we serve, and the professionals on our register.”