Bernard Gloster, the Chief Executive Officer of the Health Service Executive (HSE), has announced his decision to step down from his role and retire from public service in March 2026. The announcement, made on 13 May, provides nearly two years’ notice and is aimed at ensuring a smooth leadership transition within Ireland’s healthcare system.
Mr Gloster, who officially took on the HSE’s top position in March 2023 after his appointment in December 2022, will complete a three-year tenure when he departs on 5 March 2026. At age 59, he will retire from what is widely regarded as one of the most demanding leadership roles in Ireland’s public sector.
In a public statement, Mr Gloster said his decision was made to “bring certainty to the future leadership of the organisation.” He confirmed that his resignation has been formally submitted to HSE Chair Ciarán Devane and Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill.
“This allows ample time to prepare for the next phase of leadership of our health and personal social services,” Gloster stated. “Until then, I remain fully committed to this very important role over the coming months.”
Legacy of a Veteran Public Servant
Before leading the HSE, Mr Gloster served as CEO of Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, where he was recognised for steering the organisation through complex structural and operational reforms. His move to the HSE came during a period of significant healthcare reform and post-pandemic recovery efforts.
As HSE Chief, Gloster inherited the leadership reins from his predecessor Paul Reid. His tenure has focused on key challenges including staff recruitment and retention, reducing hospital waiting lists, and enhancing community healthcare delivery. He also played a crucial role in steering ongoing Sláintecare reforms, which aim to establish a universal healthcare system in Ireland.
Minister for Health Pays Tribute
Responding to the announcement, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill commended Mr Gloster’s contributions to the Irish health system.
“Bernard has been an extraordinary public servant, dedicating his career to improving the health service for everyone in Ireland,” she said. “Since he took over his position in 2023, Bernard has brought over 30 years of public sector experience to advance leadership across the HSE organisation.”
She added that his leadership has been invaluable and praised his commitment to public service, stating, “I have greatly appreciated his work, his expertise, and his friendship in my short time as Minister. I look forward to working with him in the coming months to continue our good work to advance a health system that works better for all.”
Preparing for the Future of Irish Healthcare
Gloster’s early notice of departure is intended to provide stability and enable the Department of Health and HSE leadership to carefully plan for the next CEO. The process to appoint a successor is expected to begin well in advance of his retirement date to avoid a leadership vacuum at a critical time for Irish healthcare.
The HSE continues to face significant pressures, including hospital overcrowding, GP shortages, and the growing need for mental health services. These will likely be top of the agenda for any incoming CEO. In recent months, the organisation has also been dealing with cybersecurity resilience, following high-profile attacks on Ireland’s health IT infrastructure.
The next phase of leadership will also coincide with efforts to decentralise some healthcare services and implement regional health areas under the Sláintecare plan — reforms that Gloster has consistently supported.
Commitment Until the End
Despite the long notice period, Gloster has affirmed his commitment to lead fully until his final day in office.
“I remain absolutely dedicated to continuing my responsibilities, working with colleagues across the HSE and Government to deliver the best outcomes for patients and the public,” he said.
His announcement has been met with respect across the public and political spectrum, recognising his decades of service and the stability his forward planning offers to a complex healthcare system.
As Ireland prepares for a shift in healthcare leadership, Gloster’s tenure will be remembered for strategic clarity, transparent communication, and efforts to modernise the HSE’s operational structures.
