Birte Harlev-lam

Birte is a highly experienced and passionate midwifery leader with a long career dedicated to improving maternity and children's services. She has held several senior roles, including Director of Midwifery in both London and Cambridge, Regional Maternity Lead, and Head of Maternity and Children’s Services at NHS England. Birte also served as the National Clinical Director for Maternity and Children at NHS Improvement, helping ensure safe, high-quality care across England.

Since 2019, Birte has been the Executive Director Midwife at the Royal College of Midwives, driving the professional agenda both in the UK and internationally. Her dedication to leadership and quality improvement has made her a key player in developing programmes for senior midwifery leaders. She was awarded an OBE in 2020 for Services to Maternity and Children's Care.

Birte holds a Master’s in Health Law and is also a trustee for two charities, Petals Charity and Best Beginnings. She remains deeply committed to supporting and guiding midwives to lead with confidence and make lasting improvements for the benefit of women and their families.