The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Badger as the new Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care, effective September 2025. Chris joins CQC from his current role as Director of Adult Care Services at Hertfordshire County Council, bringing over 15 years of dedicated experience across adult social care.
In his new role, Chris will lead CQC’s regulatory oversight and inspections of adult social care services - covering care homes, home‑based support, and services for older adults and those with complex needs. He’ll also oversee assessments of how local authorities are meeting their Care Act 2014 duties.
Sir Julian Hartley, CQC Chief Executive, said:
“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Badger… His experience of working directly with providers, councils and people who use adult social care will be important in improving how we regulate the sector, and setting high standards for the care provided.”
Chris commented:
“I’m honoured to be joining CQC… I’ve seen first‑hand the difference great adult social care can have on people’s lives… It is vitally important that people have access to timely and accurate information when making choices about who supports them.”
James Bullion, who served as Interim Chief Inspector for two years, will step down in September. Sir Julian added his thanks to James for his invaluable service.
Why Does This Matter for The Sector?
Chris’s deep background in local authority and provider collaboration provides a unique perspective that aligns with CQC’s evolving inspection model. Providers and councils can look forward to working closely with Chris as regulation becomes more outcome‑focused, person‑centred, and supportive of continuous improvement.
What Happens Next?
Chris joins in September 2025. The CQC will continue its roll‑out of the adult social care assessments, alongside ongoing work in mental health, hospitals, primary and community care.
This appointment marks a significant milestone for the sector. Chris is well‑placed to drive a regulatory approach that champions high‑quality, integrated and personalised care.
