A NEW chief executive has been appointed for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.

Dr John Martin joined the ambulance trust last year, working with the London Ambulance Service as Chief Paramedic Officer and Deputy Chief Executive.

Joining the NHS at 18 years old, John’s first job involved testing infectious diseases in a microbiology lab, he then moved on to become a consultant paramedic and teacher.

Now, he will put his medical skills to good use as the Southwestern Ambulance Service’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Stephen Otter, Chair at the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to congratulate John on his appointment and look forward to continuing our work together.

“John’s appointment follows a robust recruitment and interview process including a challenging and inclusive assessment where candidates met with a number of panels involving our people, colleague networks, the Board, and key NHS partners in the South West.”

Dr John Martin, Chief Executive of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the Chief Executive for the Trust and I have enjoyed my first few months as interim Chief Executive.

“It feels like a lot has happened in that time, and I have particularly enjoyed visiting stations and, on occasion, having the opportunity to see patients on clinical shifts. 

“Everyone has made me feel hugely welcome and I have seen the professionalism and compassion this organisation brings in a highly challenging environment.

“I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to continue my journey with SWASFT, and I very much look forward to working with colleagues, volunteers, and our partner organisations to ensure we deliver the best possible care for our patients when they need us most.”