The Royal Institute of Public Health (RIPH) and the Royal Society of Health (RSH) announced their intention to merge earlier in the year. Significant progress has been made since the announcement and the 'Royal Wedding' is expected to take place in the autumn of 2008, subject to the approval of the Privy Council Office and Charity Commission.

Close co-operation is already underway on policy work, membership development and a range of business activities. The Management Team for the 'New Royal' has been agreed and the formal name of the new organisation will be announced in the near future, following completion of a comprehensive 'branding' exercise.

Chair of the RIPH, Professor Alan Maryon Davis commented:

"Tremendous progress has been made towards merger. The two Councils have had a real meeting of minds and we have been able to appoint a team of highly talented individuals to take us into a bright new future. Public health in the UK and overseas undoubtedly will be strengthened by the merger."

Professor Richard Parish, current Chief Executive at the RSH, has been named as Chief Executive Designate of the new organisation. Professor Parish will also assume responsibility as Interim CEO for the RIPH, following the retirement of Robert Silbermann at the end of March 2008.

Commenting on Professor Parish's appointment, Chair of the RSH Dr. Selwyn Hodge said:

"In just over two years with the RSH, Richard has re-energised and re-focused the work of the Society. His forward-looking vision, networking skills and understanding of global health issues have all helped to increase our influence and improve joint working with our public health partners. I am confident that the same drive and sense of purpose will be apparent in Richard's leadership of the new organisation."

The Directors Designate of the 'New Royal' are:

Dr. Heather Davison, Director of Development and Marketing
Dr. Christopher Suter, Director of Qualifications and Certification
Janice Constable, Director of Membership and Communications
Alain Jason, Director of Operational Services
Parthy Parthipan, Director of Finance and Human Resources.

Agreement has already been reached about the new organisation's overall strategic direction. Both the RIPH and the RSH have formed strong partnerships with other national public health bodies in recent years and this will be at the heart of the New Royal's approach to public health development. Some 110,000 students a year gain RSH or RIPH qualifications and this will remain a high priority.

Between them the existing organisations occupy two central London locations and the search is now on to identify suitable accommodation within the capital for the new body. Although based in London, developing a strong relationship with all the UK countries will be an important priority.

13 November 2007