Dr Clare McNaught, a Consultant General Surgeon at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, has taken office as the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s new President today.
Clare, who has been Vice President of the College since June 2025, is the first ever female to hold the role of President in the College’s 520-year history.
The ceremony took place at the College’s AGM, which was held at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s iconic building on Nicolson Street. At the event, Clare outlined her priorities for the upcoming three-year term in her first address as President of the College.
Clare McNaught said: “It is an incredible honour to take on the role of President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh – an institution with such a rich history and a global impact.
“I feel privileged to represent a new chapter of progress for the surgical profession. Over the next three years, my priorities will focus on advancing surgical education, supporting the next generation of surgeons, and fostering a culture of collaboration.”
The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh was first incorporated as the Barber Surgeons of Edinburgh in 1505 and is based in Edinburgh, Birmingham and Malaysia.
The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh represents over 33,000 members globally, including over 15,000 members in the UK, and advocates on behalf of its members and patients to promote high standards and patient safety.
Clare, who is a general surgeon with a particular interest in colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, succeeds Professor Rowan Parks, who has served as the College’s President for the last three years.
Clare has previously held several other positions in the College, including examiner, Regional Surgical Ambassador for Yorkshire, Surgeons News Editor, Founder and Chair of the Younger Fellows Committee and Honorary Secretary.
Dr Jacqueline Andrews, Executive Medical Director at HDFT said: “Many congratulations to Clare from all of her colleagues at HDFT. We feel very privileged to have her in our team here in Harrogate and we are delighted that her many talents will now be showcased at a national level.”