National Joint Registry (NJR) Director of Operations appointment

We are pleased to announce that Chris Boulton has been appointed as the new Director of Operations for the National Joint Registry (NJR), which is hosted by HQIP, effective from 31 March.

Chris has worked for the NJR for almost eight years, previously in the role of Associate Director of Research and Governance, and more recently as Deputy Director of Operations. A clinical audit professional for over 20 years, Chris has a strong track record in health data, analytics, and operational leadership roles, developing expertise in delivering complex national programmes, improving data quality, and translating insight into impact across the health system. This combination of external experience and deep organisational knowledge provides a strong foundation for his appointment, bringing both credibility and continuity at a critical time for the NJR.

Chris takes up the role as the NJR announces a new Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2030, which sets out an ambitious vision to enhance the value of NJR data, improve patient safety and outcomes, strengthen collaboration across the system, and ensure the long term sustainability and impact of the registry. He will lead the operational delivery of this agenda, building on the NJR’s strong foundations and supporting its continued evolution as a trusted national asset.

Commenting on his appointment, Chris said: “It is a real privilege to take on the role of Director of Operations for the NJR. Having been closely involved in the development and delivery of the registry’s work, I am proud of what has been achieved and excited about the opportunity ahead. The Strategic Plan sets a clear and ambitious direction, and I look forward to working with colleagues and partners to deliver meaningful improvements in patient safety, outcomes, and the value we provide to the health system.”

Professor Sir Paul Curran, Chair of the NJR, added: “I would like to offer my congratulations to Chris on his appointment as the new NJR Director of Operations.  The post attracted a strong field of candidates, and it was a great privilege to interview such a talented range of individuals.  Chris was able to display not only his nuanced understanding of all aspects of the NJR’s operations but a compelling vision for our future.  I’m sure that the Board, NJR staff and our many stakeholders will wish him well as he picks up the reins in April”. 

We add our congratulations, and look forward to working in partnership with Chris – and his wider team – as he commences in this important role, supporting improvements in patient outcomes and clinical practice: “Chris’ appointment as Operations Director NJR is a strong and well deserved step. He brings real depth of knowledge across the audit and registries landscape, alongside a detailed understanding of orthopaedic joint replacement and the critical role the NJR plays in improving patient outcomes. This is an exciting moment for both the NJR and HQIP as we look ahead to delivering our new strategic ambitions. Chris’ experience, credibility and commitment to the programme will be central to that journey. I am delighted to see him take on this role and very much look forward to working with him as part of the HQIP senior team,” Chris Gush, CEO of HQIP.

We would also like to extend our thanks, once again, to Elaine Young, the out-going Director of Operations at the NJR, who announced her retirement in January.