Health Minister Robbie Butler has announced the appointment of Professor Sean Holland CBE as Chair of the Board of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (the Social Care Council).
Sean brings extensive experience across health, social care and public service leadership. He graduated as a social worker from Ulster University in 1986 and later obtained a Master of Laws in Medical Law from the University of Northumbria. Throughout his career, he has held a range of frontline and senior leadership roles in social work, social care and government.
Sean served as Chief Social Work Officer and Deputy Secretary within the Department of Health until October 2022 and more recently as Director of Access to Justice within the Department of Justice. He has also contributed internationally to the development of children’s social work and social care systems and continues to support the sector through a number of advisory and governance roles.
Tracy Reid, Chief Executive of the Social Care Council, said:
“I am delighted to welcome Sean as Chair of the Social Care Council Board. Sean is widely respected across health and social care for his leadership, expertise and commitment to improving outcomes for people and communities.
His extensive experience in social work, policy development and public service leadership will be invaluable as the Social Care Council continues to support, develop and champion Northern Ireland’s social work and social care workforce.”
Sean Holland said:
“I am honoured to have been appointed Chair of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council Board. The social work and social care workforce make a significant difference to the lives of individuals, families and communities every day. I look forward to working with Board members, the Chief Executive and staff of the Social Care Council to support the organisation’s important role in promoting excellence in social work and social care and helping to strengthen the workforce for the future.”
The Non-Executive Chair position attracts remuneration of £20,358 per annum with a time commitment of two days per week. The appointment is made in accordance with the Code of Practice issued by the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland.
The announcement of this appointment was made on the Department of Health website on 28 August 2026. You can view the full announcement here.