New Director of Public Health Begins Role on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight Council is pleased to announce that Kate Harvey will officially begin her role as Director of Public Health on 1 September 2025, marking a significant milestone in the Island’s journey towards a fully independent public health service.

Kate’s appointment follows a national recruitment process earlier this year and comes as the successful long-standing partnership with Hampshire County Council for public health leadership concludes. This transition reflects the council’s commitment to strengthening local leadership, improving health outcomes, and delivering a service tailored to the unique needs of Island communities.

Kate brings extensive experience in health protection, health improvement and system leadership, with a career spanning senior roles in the NHS, local government, the voluntary sector and public health research. Her work has consistently focused on reducing health inequalities and improving the building blocks for good health.

Kate said: “I’m delighted to be starting my role as Director of Public Health for the Isle of Wight. It’s a privilege to return to the Island and lead a locally focused, place-based approach to health and wellbeing. I look forward to working with residents, communities, partners, and colleagues across the council to build a fairer and healthier future for everyone—embracing a one-organisation approach that strengthens collaboration and delivers joined-up support for our communities.”

As Director, Kate will oversee a team of specialists within the council’s Public Health structure, ensuring strong leadership and continued improvements in service delivery.

Wendy Perera, Chief Executive of the Isle of Wight Council, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Kate to the senior leadership team. Her expertise and passion for public health will be instrumental in shaping a service that puts our residents and communities at its heart. We also extend our sincere thanks to Simon Bryant for his dedicated leadership and support over many years including during the pandemic.”

Councillor Clare Mosdell, Committee Chair for Adult Social Care and Public Health, added: “Kate’s arrival marks a new chapter for public health on the Island. Her leadership and experience will help us tackle the challenges ahead and ensure we deliver responsive, effective services that meet the needs of our communities.”

Kate, originally from the Isle of Wight, shared her vision for the role: “The Island has many strengths — strong communities, a vibrant voluntary sector, and a clear sense of place, yet not everyone has the same opportunity for good health. I’m excited to work closely with residents and partners to improve the building blocks for good health and reduce inequalities, so the Island can be a fairer and healthier place for all.”