After nearly a decade as Chief Executive, Al Russell will step down this autumn and be succeeded by Philip Luce, joining from Bupa in October 2026.
The London Clinic announces leadership transition
7 May 2026
Share this post
Need answers quickly?
Our Rapid Diagnostics Centre offers fast access to advanced imaging, specialist clinics and on-site testing - helping you get clarity in days, not weeks. Plus, our 24/7 private GP service is here whenever you need urgent advice.
Our charitable purpose
As a charitable hospital, we reinvest in exceptional care, research and innovation - helping us improve healthcare for patients here and far beyond our walls.
Everything you need for your visit
Your Patient Hub brings together everything you need to prepare for your visit, understand your care and know what to expect throughout your stay.
The Trustees of The London Clinic today announce that long standing Chief Executive Al Russell will step down from his role this autumn, following almost a decade at the helm, and will be succeeded by Philip Luce.
Under Al’s leadership, The London Clinic is not only the UK’s largest independent hospital by admissions but is very well positioned for long term success. Al steered the organisation through the unprecedented challenges of the national pandemic, has consistently improved patient and staff satisfaction to reach the highest levels, and has overseen clinical innovation that is at the forefront of independent healthcare.
In 2024, Al also spearheaded the transformative collaboration with Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, establishing a sustainable platform that will enable The London Clinic to continue to deliver its purpose with pace, resilience, and ambition.
Al's contribution to The London Clinic has been remarkable. His unwavering focus on exceptional patient care, combined with a deep commitment to culture and excellence, has left a lasting legacy for the hospital.Mike Bussey, Chair of the Trustees, The London Clinic
Philip Luce will succeed Al as Chief Executive, formally joining in October 2026. Philip joins The London Clinic from Bupa, where he has enjoyed a highly successful 15-year career. He was promoted last year to a role overseeing Bupa’s expanded London hospital portfolio, following eight years as CEO of Bupa Cromwell Hospital. Earlier in his career, Philip worked as a physiologist both in the NHS and at HCA’s London Bridge Hospital before nearly 10 years as a Cardiology Manager and Lead at HCA International.
On behalf of the Trustees, Mike Bussey added that he would like to thank Al for all that he has achieved and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career. He continued: “I and my fellow Trustees are delighted that Philip has agreed to join us as Chief Executive. He brings a strong track record and exactly the skills and leadership we need as we continue to deliver our clinical, commercial, and charitable ambitions in collaboration with Northwestern Medicine. We very much look forward to working with him.”
It has been a great privilege to lead this remarkable institution for so many years. This is a natural moment of transition for both me and the hospital, and I am delighted to be handing over to someone of Philip Luce's calibre later this year to lead the next chapter.Al Russell, outgoing Chief Executive
Reflecting on his appointment, Philip Luce shared his optimism about the hospital’s future and his commitment to building on its charitable mission and clinical excellence.
“The London Clinic has a proud history. Its charitable mission and world-class patient diagnostics, treatment and research are not just a meaningful legacy to protect, they are a strength to build on. I look forward to advancing Al’s achievements in the coming years.”
— Philip Luce, Chief Executive designate