Queen Margaret University has given an honorary doctorate to Scotland’s former chief nursing officer (CNO) in recognition of his substantial contributions to health and public service.
Dame Prue Leith, the university’s chancellor, presented Alex McMahon with an honorary degree at a graduation ceremony held in Edinburgh’s Usher Hall on Tuesday.
Professor McMahon retired as Scotland’s Chief National Officer in April after three years in the position.
Under Professor McMahon’s leadership, Scotland was the only jurisdiction in the UK to resolve the recent nurse pay dispute without a strike.
Meanwhile, he managed the establishment of the country’s Nursing and Midwifery Taskforce, advanced safe staffing legislation, and increased support for retired nurses seeking to return to practice.
According to Queen Margaret University, Professor McMahon displayed a “profound commitment to the nursing profession” while serving as CNO.
The university stated that his leadership was marked by compassion and integrity amid some of the most difficult times for Scotland’s health service.
Professor McMahon began his career at NHS Lanarkshire, holding a variety of nursing jobs.
He then traveled to Edinburgh to serve in a variety of development, consulting, and policy roles at the Royal College of Nursing before becoming AstraZeneca’s head of government and industry affairs.
Following that, Professor McMahon worked in various positions in the Scottish Government before joining NHS Lothian, where he handled a number of high-level strategic planning positions.
At the health board, Professor McMahon advocated for change and innovation in mental health and learning disability support, drug and alcohol treatment, cancer care, and palliative care.
He retired as CNO this year, but was later named chair of the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s independent steering group for the evaluation of nursing and midwifery practice learning.
Sir Paul Grice, principal and vice-chancellor of Queen Margaret University, stated that “Alex McMahon’s collaborative spirit fosters partnerships that improve patient outcomes and elevate the nursing profession.”
“His delivery of world-class safe and effective healthcare, as well as his transformational leadership of the profession, has brought together various professional bodies on a shared journey to a healthier Scotland.”
This honorary award recognizes his unshakable, ongoing dedication to patient care, relentless advocacy for the nursing and midwifery professions, and ability to transform and deliver change under pressure,” he said.
Professor McMahon received the honorary doctorate alongside Dr. James Robson, a Scottish doctor and Scottish Rugby’s chief medical officer.
This week’s honorary graduates include television presenter Sally Gray and Juliet Robertson, a distinguished educator in Scotland who specialises in outdoor learning and play.
