Janet Davies is to step down as chief executive of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) by the end of August.
‘It has been a great honour to represent my profession at the highest level, and I am proud of the achievements the College has made over the past three years against a difficult political backdrop,’ she said.
‘I wish my colleagues and our membership all the best for the future, and look forward to taking on some new challenges.’
In July, an online petition made by RCN members expressed no confidence in the College’s leadership following misinformation over the promised pay deal.
Many nurses were told to expect a 3% pay rise in July by the RCN, who support the government’s pay deal promising a 6.5% pay rise in the next 3 years, but found the increase to be far less than what they were told once they received their pay packets.
Ms Davies emailed all members to apologise for the miscalculation.
Having joint the RCN in 2005, Ms Davies has held the position for 3 years. Her role will be taken over by Donna Kinnair, who is currently the director of nursing, policy and practice.
‘The RCN and Janet Davies have decided to part ways by mutual agreement. We thank her for all her service to the College as Chief Executive and General Secretary over the past three years, and wish her well,’ said Maria Trewern, chair of the RCN council.
The College have said they will make an ‘informed decision’ concerning the future of its leadership based on the findings of a review into the pay deal mishap.