The UK’s largest care home provider HC-One has appointed James Tugendhat as chief executive.

Tugendhat previously led the European and international division of US-based Bright Horizons, prior to which he was chief executive at Towergate Direct. He also worked at Bupa and is a non-executive director of the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.

Tugendhat said: “I have been deeply impressed by the commitment of the company to its mission to be the first choice for families, and to thrive by being the employer of choice, sustaining quality with kind care. 

“I have no doubt that HC-One’s culture and values have provided a strong foundation through this difficult time and will support it to build going forward.”

Sir David Behan, who has been executive chairman of the company since the departure of previous chief executive Justin Hutchens in January, will be handing over executive responsibilities and reverting to his previous role of chairman of the HC-One board. 

Sir David said: “James has impressive experience across consumer services, healthcare and early years, and has proved himself as a successful CEO with a track record of achievement. 

“I am very much looking forward to working with him over the years to come, and I have no doubt that James will build on the successes of The Kind Care Company to date and take HC-One from strength to strength.”