Antony Tiernan

Background

About Antony Tiernan

I’ve worked in communications for more than 30 years - and for 21 of those, I’ve been proud to serve the NHS. Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by one thing: helping organisations tell their story with honesty, empathy and impact. Right now, I’m Director of Transformation Communications and Engagement at the Department of Health and Social Care, leading how we communicate reform and improvement across health and social care. Before that, I was Director of Communications and Engagement at NHS Blood and Transplant, heading up national campaigns that inspired people to donate blood, organs and tissue - campaigns that quite literally saved lives. Earlier roles include Interim Director of Communications at London Fire Brigade, where I led on our response to Phase Two of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, including engagement with survivors and families of the bereaved. Before that, I was Director of Communications and Engagement at London Ambulance Service, where I led through the challenges of the COVID pandemic. Prior to that, I spent four years at NHS England, including leading national communications for the NHS’s 70th and 75th anniversaries - moments that reminded me just how deeply the NHS touches all our lives. I’ve been a board-level director for 17 years and have covered the full communications spectrum - from crisis management, public affairs and PR through to digital, internal comms and community engagement. I’ve led responses to major incidents and terror attacks, spoken at conferences across the UK, and been lucky enough to win a few awards along the way. Before joining the NHS, I worked in the charity sector - an experience that grounded my belief in communications as a force for good. Alongside my day job, I’m also a proud Trustee of NHS Charities Together, supporting the network of NHS charities that go above and beyond for patients and staff every day. At heart, I’m passionate about people, purpose and storytelling - and helping others communicate with clarity, compassion and confidence.