Former Chief Executive of NHS Gloucestershire awarded CBE for services to community wellbeing, health and care

Mary Hutton, former Chief Executive of NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the King’s New Year Honours for her outstanding contribution to community wellbeing, health and care.

Mary retired earlier this year after more than 30 years of dedicated service to the NHS. During her 14 years of leadership in Gloucestershire, partnership working became a defining strength of the local health and care system. She set a clear long-term direction: stronger prevention, more integrated care, service innovation, a supportive workplace culture and sound finances.

Her approach championed practical support for communities and improved services for children and young people, older people, and those living with long-term conditions or disabilities. Mary also played a key role in shaping integrated care locally and nationally, influencing policy and practice that helped lay the foundations for Integrated Care Systems across England.

Outside the NHS, Mary has shown a deep commitment to young people and youth services, volunteering for charitable and community organisations over many years.

The CBE is one of the highest honours awarded by the King, recognising individuals who have made a highly distinguished, innovative contribution in their area of activity.

Mary Hutton said:

“I feel deeply honoured to receive this award. It has been a privilege to work alongside such committed staff and supportive partners across Gloucestershire. Over the years, we’ve achieved a great deal together for local people, from improving wellbeing to strengthening services. This honour reflects those shared efforts over 14 years and I’m truly grateful for the support I’ve had throughout my career.”

Professor Dame Jane Cummings, Deputy Chair, NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, said:

“Mary’s leadership and vision have had a profound and lasting impact on health and care in Gloucestershire and beyond. She has been instrumental in driving collaboration across organisations, improving outcomes for patients, and creating a culture where staff feel valued and supported. Her influence at a national level helped shape the development of Integrated Care Systems, ensuring that partnership working became central to how we deliver care. This honour is a fitting recognition of her exceptional contribution and unwavering commitment to the NHS.”