Mike Farrar is stepping down as chair of UK Active, after being appointed interim Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health in Northern Ireland.

Farrar took over as chair of UK Active in June 2022, following on from Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and during this time has helped to grow the sector’s relationship with the NHS and care services, including the co-design of a new blueprint for integrated care systems.

He says: “It has been a privilege to be chair of UK Active and play a part in shaping the future of this fantastic organisation and sector.

“I wish to thank my colleagues, our partners and all UK Active’s members for supporting this important period in our journey and strategy for growth.

“I am confident that I will leave the board, the organisation and the sector in a strong position to continue our growth and realise our vision for physical activity in the UK.”

Previous roles include chief executive of the NHS Confederation, head of Primary Care at the Department of Health in London, and chief executive of Health Authorities in North West England, Yorkshire and Tees. He also served as vice and interim chair of Sport England between 2009 to 2012 and chair of Swim England from 2015 to 2020.

Farrar’s final appearance for UK Active will be at Active Uprising 2025, which takes place on 6 March at the QEII Centre in Westminster.

The recruitment of his successor will be overseen by UK Active’s treasurer, Katy Cox, who will act as interim chair.

Huw Edwards, CEO of UK Active, says: “Mike has been a tremendous ally for the organisation and the sector, instrumental in driving forward the work to integrate the physical activity sector with the health and care sector.

“We are sad to see him leave but we are extremely grateful for his stewardship over the past three years and wish him all the best in his new role.”