UNISON elects James Anthony as President

A cardiac nurse from Birmingham has been elected president of UNISON by the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) at its annual conference, announced on Monday 22 June.

James Anthony, who has worked in nursing for 20 years, takes on the role after serving as UNISON’s senior vice president. He succeeds outgoing president Catherine McKenna and will lead the union during a period of significant challenges and change across healthcare and public services.

James currently leads and supports congenital heart disease nursing services across the West Midlands, helping to ensure patients receive consistent, high-quality care. He began his nursing career on a cardiology ward at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, where he cared for people living with congenital heart disease. He brings extensive experience both as a healthcare professional and trade union representative to the presidency.

He will be supported by senior vice president Debbie Rowden, a local government project manager from Norfolk, and junior vice president Micaela Tracey-Ramos, a local government project manager from Liverpool.

Speaking after his election, James said: “It’s a privilege to become president. I am excited to take on this role at such an important time for nursing, healthcare, and public services more widely.  

“This is an opportunity to build on the union’s strengths, meet the challenges ahead and ensure workers’ voices continue to be heard, while helping to secure the best possible outcomes for patients, families and communities.”

James' election reflects the union’s commitment to representing workers across public services, with his experience in frontline healthcare expected to shape his presidency over the coming year.