The Trustees of The London Clinic has announced that long‑standing Chief Executive Al Russell will step down from his role this autumn, following almost a decade at the helm. He will be succeeded by Philip Luce.
The Trustees wish to place on record their sincere gratitude for Al’s highly effective tenure. Under his 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.
Philip Luce will succeed Al as Chief Executive later this year. 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.
Mike Bussey, Chair of the Trustees of The London Clinic, said: “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. On behalf of the Trustees, I would like to thank Al for all that he has achieved and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.
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.”
Al Russell, outgoing Chief Executive, said: “My feelings for The London Clinic are ones of deep affection, pride, and optimism. 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.”
Philip Luce, Chief Executive ‑ designate, said: “It is a genuine honour to take on the executive leadership of this hospital. 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.”
Al will be conducting a handover of his role with Philip formally joining the Clinic in October 2026.
For more information about The London Clinic, visit www.thelondonclinic.co.uk
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