4 January 2024

Richard the new communications director at CNWLRichard Mountford has been appointed as the new director of communications and community engagement at CNWL. He will join the Trust in mid-February 2024; replacing Mike Waddington who retired as director of communications at the end of last year.

Richard joins the Trust from his current role as the deputy director of communications for West London NHS Trust.

Richard has spent his entire 20-plus year career as a communications professional with expertise and academic qualifications in public relations, health communications, media and business management. He has worked in the NHS for almost 12 years in various provider, commissioner and NHS England communications teams, having worked within the charity and private sectors earlier in his career.

Richard was also shortlisted for a national Comms Hero award in 2023 for his work on sustainability, particularly leading the ‘West London in Bloom’ gardening competition as part of the NHS 75 celebrations…despite knowing very little about gardening!

Commenting on his appointment to CNWL, Richard says:

“I’m really looking forward to getting started at CNWL. I know the comms team and some of the senior leaders at the Trust from my time working at West London and I’ve always been impressed with their work. It’s far from an easy time in the NHS right now but every challenge brings opportunity so I can’t wait to get working across the large geographical footprint and range of diverse communities that CNWL represents”

“I’m very keen to come and visit CNWL clinical services so please invite me!”

Away from work, Richard lives with his wife and two children in Shepherd’s Bush. Originally from Nottingham, Richard is a keen Nottingham Forest fan and spends any spare time he has playing “dads’ 5-a-side” football, going for a run or watching cricket.

Ross Graves, Chief Strategy and Digital Officer, says:

“I’m delighted that Richard is joining the CNWL team.  This is a key role for the Trust and Richard brings a wealth of experience and relationships, both in North West London and more widely.  Welcome Richard!”