John Somers is an experienced leader with over 22 years of board-level experience in both the public and private sectors, and a deep passion for the NHS. With a varied and distinguished career, John’s leadership has spanned across commissioning, community services, acute hospital care, and strategic development, making him a highly respected figure in the healthcare landscape.
Before joining Pennine GP Alliance (PGPA), John served as the Chief Executive Officer of Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust from 2014 until his retirement in July 2022.
During his tenure, he played a crucial role in leading the Trust, and prior to that, he held senior roles across various NHS services. He also worked in regional leadership within an Integrated Care System and a local leadership position in a Place-based Accountable Care Partnership, where he successfully delivered transformational change through partnership working.
Additionally, John has experience as an executive reviewer for the CQC, contributing to well-led inspection reviews.
John became a PGPA Board Member in August 2022, shortly after his retirement, with a desire to explore ways to improve the integration of care outside the acute hospital setting. His expertise spans strategic planning, financial analysis, commercial development, and NHS strategy, all of which he brings to his role as Chair of the Board, which he acquired in January 2025.
As Chair, John’s vision for PGPA is to be at the forefront of designing and delivering local healthcare that is closer to home and addresses health inequalities. He believes that PGPA plays a critical role in shaping the future of healthcare, particularly by improving patient care and creating a more connected healthcare system in the local community.
John finds the most reward in engaging with those most connected to the health needs of the population. His leadership qualities are built around strategy, engagement, partnership, and a visionary approach to healthcare. He works closely with fellow Board members through strategic planning sessions, the PGPA Strategy Group, and informal connectivity to drive the organisation’s goals.
What sets Pennine GP Alliance apart, according to John, is its commitment to improving health outcomes for the community. He is proud to be part of an organisation that cares deeply about its population and fosters collaboration to achieve better results in healthcare delivery.
John’s values as a leader are guided by compassion, integrity, and a commitment to working as a system to deliver holistic care. These principles, along with his dedication to improving health outcomes, are what motivate him as a Board Member. His passion for healthcare is personal—he is driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference and ensure that people receive the care they deserve.
Outside of his professional life, John has developed an appreciation for art. He has converted an upstairs room in his home into a studio, where he produces his own paintings and curates a growing collection of artwork. He is also inspired and grounded by his family, who provide him with a sense of focus and purpose in both his personal and professional life.
In his role at Pennine GP Alliance, John brings not only a wealth of expertise but a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of the local community, ensuring that the organisation continues to thrive and innovate in its delivery of care.