We’re delighted to announce the appointment of Dame Linda Pollard as Strategic Advisor, strengthening Icon’s engagement across Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region as it continues to expand access to high quality cancer care.
Dame Linda brings a long and influential record of healthcare leadership in West Yorkshire, including more than a decade as Chair of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, one of the largest and busiest teaching hospital trusts in the UK. Her appointment reflects Icon’s commitment to working closely with experienced local leaders who understand the health needs challenges and opportunities of the communities it serves.
Deep local insight and trusted healthcare leadership
Widely respected for her contribution to public service, Dame Linda has played a significant role in shaping healthcare delivery, governance and strategy across Yorkshire. Her deep understanding of the local health system, combined with a strong connection to civic, clinical and community stakeholders, will support Icon’s long-term approach to delivering care that is locally grounded and responsive to community need.
Dame Linda said she was personally excited to join Icon at an important moment for cancer care in the region.
“Having been a healthcare decision‑maker in Leeds for many years, I know how strong, resilient and proud this community is and how important access to timely cancer care is for local people,” Dame Linda said.
“I’m personally very excited to partner with Icon who have a proven global track record of delivering sustainable, highly advanced and personalised cancer care.
“Their clinician-led and values driven organisation and emphasis on partnerships is a welcome addition to the local healthcare landscape during a significant time of increase cancer rates and demand.”
Supporting improved access to cancer care across Leeds and Yorkshire
Dame Linda’s appointment follows Icon’s recent announcement of its intent to develop a new Icon Cancer Centre in Leeds, proposed as part of a broader health initiative at AMT Headingley Stadium. The proposed centre is designed to respond to growing demand for cancer services across Leeds and Yorkshire, where thousands of people are living with cancer with many, continuing to travel long distances for daily radiotherapy treatment.
“Partnerships like Icon and Leeds Rhinos are integral to shaping better health systems that can make a real difference for patients and families.”
She added that Icon’s values and approach strongly aligned with the needs of the city.
“I’m pleased to be supporting these two organisations, who both show a genuine commitment to improving healthcare for the people of Leeds.”
The Leeds proposal reflects Icon’s commitment to the UK and its belief that world-class cancer care should be delivered closer to where people live, supported by strong local partnerships and community led planning.
CEO - Icon Europe, Aldo Rolfo said Dame Linda’s appointment further strengthens Icon’s connection to Leeds and its health ecosystem.
“Dame Linda brings exceptional experience, credibility and regional insight,” Aldo said.
“Her guidance will be invaluable as we continue our commitment to improving access to cancer care across Leeds and Yorkshire, working in partnership with the community, council and local leaders to deliver care that is both exceptional and patient centred.”
Icon Group CEO, Mark Middleton said this will further strengthens Icon’s growth pipeline in the UK.
“Partnerships and local collaboration are key to delivering successful healthcare ecosystems and we’re really proud to have people like Dame Linda advising us on the ground to ensure we meet the needs of local communities and deliver more care to more people across the UK.”
A partnership led approach, grounded in community
As Strategic Advisor, Dame Linda will support Icon’s engagement with local partners, industry and government leaders and healthcare stakeholders, helping ensure that proposed developments are shaped by local understanding and aligned with community priorities.
Her appointment reinforces Icon’s collaborative, partnership led approach in the UK and its focus on long term sustainability in cancer care delivery across the region.
Further details about the proposed Leeds centre will be shared as planning and engagement continue.
Read more about Icon’s proposed new cancer centre at AMT Headingley Stadium.