New executive director of RCN Wales appointed

A new executive director of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Wales has been appointed.

Helen Whyley, who has held the role since 2019, will be succeeded by Nicola Williams.

Ms Williams, a strategic nurse leader with 38 years of nursing experience, is joining the RCN from Velindre University NHS Trust where she is executive director for nursing, allied health professionals and health care scientists.

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She has more than six years’ experience at executive board level and is ‘widely recognised’ across NHS Wales for her ‘commitment to improving patient outcomes’.

‘I feel so privileged to be appointed as executive director of RCN Wales,’ she said. ‘I’m a proud nurse, passionate about patient safety and improving care standards.

‘I know that delivering the best care is only possible by ensuring all nursing staff are able to work in safe, inclusive and supportive environments. I’ll be standing alongside you and your patients.

‘Nursing staff are the backbone of health and care. I’m determined to help our members in Wales, no matter where they work, meet challenges head on, and forge a new path for our profession in the modern world.

‘I look forward to meeting members and being out and about as much as possible across Wales. I want our work in the coming years to be informed and inspired by your experiences and expertise.’

During her career, Ms Williams has led large‑scale transformation programmes as well as strengthening national clinical leadership networks and championing innovation and evidence‑based improvement. Her work has contributed to service changes adopted nationally and she has been recognised through national award wins.

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Meanwhile, Ms Whyley is moving into a new role of director of service innovation at the RCN.

Writing about her move on LinkedIn, Ms Whyley said: ‘After eight incredible years, I will be stepping down from the role in spring 2026.

‘It has been an honour to serve our members, work alongside dedicated colleagues, and collaborate with passionate advocates and stakeholders across the nursing profession.

‘While this chapter is coming to a close, I’m pleased to share that my journey with the RCN is not over. After a short break, I will return in a new, part-time role as RCN director for service innovation. In this role, I’ll be leading key internal projects focused on improving how we work, supporting our staff, and strengthening our service to the nursing community.

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‘I’m deeply grateful to everyone I’ve worked with over the past eight years – for the experiences we’ve shared and the opportunities we’ve created together.

‘Thank you for your support, your commitment, and your belief in the power of nursing.’