In June, Headway London welcomed Sir Timothy Melville-Ross as its new Chair, bringing experience from leadership roles across business, education and healthcare including serving as Chief Executive of Nationwide Building Society, Director General of the Institute of Directors, and Chair of Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Tim is now turning his attention to supporting our work across London.
Since retiring from paid work at the end of 2024, Tim has devoted much of his time to charities and community organisations. Drawn to roles where he feels he can make the greatest contribution, he continues to bring decades of leadership experience to causes close to his heart.
“It makes sense to continue using that experience, for myself and I hope for organisations like Headway London.” He says.
Learning from neurorehabilitation
A particularly important influence on Tim’s journey was his time as Chair of Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Through the hospital’s Regional Neuro Rehabilitation Unit, he saw first-hand the importance of specialist support for people recovering from life-changing neurological injuries and conditions.
Reflecting on this experience, Tim says:
“My family circumstances coupled with my time chairing the Homerton Hospital with its Regional Neuro Rehabilitation Unit have been important parts of my experience.”
His time with the Trust strengthened his understanding of the challenges faced by people living with brain injury and the vital role rehabilitation services play in supporting recovery, independence and quality of life.
A personal connection to our cause
Tim’s commitment to Headway London is also shaped by his family life.
Together with his wife Ruth, he is part of a large blended family. Between them they have six children and a growing number of grandchildren.
“We have rather a large family. Three children each, all married, and with a total of 12 grandchildren, about to be 13. With spouses, that will make 27 Christmas presents, including the two of us!”
Two of Tim’s now-adult grandchildren live with significant disabilities, giving him a personal understanding of some of the experiences faced by families accessing care, support and rehabilitation services.
Looking ahead
For Tim, retirement is not about stepping back. Alongside his role with Headway London, he continues to volunteer in his community and is preparing to support patients and families at Whittington Hospital in North London.
What excites him most about this post is the opportunity to continue contributing his skills and experience to organisations that improve lives.
“I really do want to do more, and this role would give me a wonderful opportunity to do that.”
As Headway London’s new Chair, Tim brings together a wealth of leadership experience, an appreciation of the value of neurorehabilitation, and a personal commitment to supporting people affected by brain injury and their families. We are thrilled to have him on board for this new period of growth, as we continue to build our influence and reach across London, making access to support more equitable across the capital.
