Professor Denny Levett appointed as Director of the Centre for Perioperative Care

Published: 07/07/2025

The Royal College of Anaesthetists is pleased to announce that Professor Denny Levett has been appointed as the Centre for Perioperative Care’s (CPOC) new Director. 

Professor Levett is a consultant in perioperative and critical care medicine at University Hospital Southampton, where she leads a multidisciplinary perioperative care service integrating digital screening, shared decision-making, optimisation and community-based prehabilitation. She has served as NHSE clinical lead for perioperative care in Hampshire Isle of Wight region and as President of the International Prehabilitation Society. She is currently a Professor of Perioperative Medicine and Critical Care at the University of Southampton

Professor Levett is a strong advocate for perioperative care and has a successful track record of collaborative leadership and commitment to education. The College looks forward to her Directorship as CPOC continues to lead in integrating perioperative care across the NHS for the benefit of patients. 

This is the Centre’s second director after the conclusion of the inaugural Director, Dr David Selwyn’s, term.

Professor Denny Levett said:

“I am honoured to take on the role of Director at the Centre for Perioperative Care. The team has done a fantastic job in establishing CPOC as a national leader in collaborative, patient-centred perioperative care.

“I look forward to building on these strong foundations to drive the implementation of evidence-based pathways, support and empower the multidisciplinary workforce, and help improve outcomes for patients across the UK.”

Dr Claire Shannon, President of the Royal College of Anaesthetists, said:

“I am very pleased to welcome Denny Levett as the new Director of the Centre for Perioperative Care. Denny brings a wealth of experience and leadership in perioperative medicine, underpinned by a clear commitment to improving patient outcomes through collaboration and innovation.

“Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for CPOC. I would also like to thank Dr David Selwyn for his exceptional work as the Centre’s inaugural Director, he has laid the groundwork for CPOC’s growing impact across the NHS. I look forward to the RCoA and CPOC’s continued partnership to to integrate perioperative care throughout the NHS.”