Chief Midwifery Officer
Sarah Horan was appointed Chief Midwifery Officer in September 2026.
Responsibilities
The Chief Midwifery Officer (CMidO) provides strategic and professional advice to Scottish Ministers and Scottish Government on matters relating to and affecting the professions within her portfolio across the Health and Social Care sector.
The CMidO is responsible for:
- midwifery
- maternal health
- early years and children
- perinatal care
- children’s community nursing
Biography
Sarah began her nursing career in 1991 before training as a midwife at Edinburgh’s Simpson Memorial Maternity Pavilion. Her clinical background has shaped a longstanding commitment to improving care and outcomes for women, babies, and families.
Sarah has held a range of senior leadership roles across NHS Scotland, including Executive Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals at NHS Borders, before her appointment as Chief Midwifery Officer.
Sarah is an accredited midwife sonographer with specialist expertise in early pregnancy, fetal medicine and obstetric ultrasound, and extensive experience in screening and diagnostic ultrasound services.
Sarah completed postgraduate studies in Medical Imaging at the University of Lancaster, strengthening her expertise in ultrasound practice and women's healthcare.
Recognised for her inclusive leadership, Sarah has championed workforce development, collaboration, and person-centred care throughout her career.