Members – Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority

Job Description

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care is looking to appoint one Professional and one Lay Member to the board of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). One of the new members will also Chair the Audit and Governance Committee (AGC). The HFEA is the UK-wide independent regulator for fertility treatment and embryo research.

Members are required to build and retain public and professional confidence in the regulation of fertility treatment and embryo research and to play a key part in the effective and successful governance of the HFEA.

Candidates will have a strong career track record of significant delivery at a senior level within the private, public or voluntary sectors and an ability to operate effectively as part of a team on the board of a national public body, where you provide support, challenge and assurance. Candidates should also have sound judgement, with an ability to critically analyse a wide range of information and make evidence-based, strategic decisions and excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to gain the confidence of colleagues within your organisation and of its stakeholders.  

In addition, for the Professional member role, candidates need to be a clinician with senior level experience in fertility medicine and research. If candidates wish to be considered for the role of Chair of HFEA's AGC, they must have senior corporate or finance experience (in the public, private or third sectors), with experience of governance, risk management, assurance, and the work of audit and risk committees.
Remuneration will be £7,883 per annum, with the AGC Chair receiving £13,137 per annum, for a time commitment of three days per month.  The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care determines the length of appointment, which may be for up to a maximum of 3 years.

For more information, please visit the Public Appointments website: 
http://publicappointments.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/8957  

If you require an alternative format, please call Karen Dinsdale on 0113 2545414 or Rachael Gingell on 02074849424 quoting the reference VAC-8957.

The closing date for applications is midday on Monday, 25 May 2026

The Department of Health and Social Care values and promotes diversity. We encourage applications from talented individuals from all backgrounds and across the whole of the United Kingdom. Boards of public bodies are most effective when they reflect the diversity of views of the society they serve.