Dr John Martin has formally taken on the role of chief executive at the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT).

He has taken up this position on secondment from his job as chief paramedic and quality officer at the London Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

Mr Martin also served as its deputy chief executive.

The new SWASFT chief executive brings to the table extensive operational and clinical expertise from working in ambulance, acute, community, and mental health NHS services.

Adding to his professional accolades, he is also a visiting professor in paramedic science at the University of Hertfordshire.

Mr Martin assumes the role from Will Warrender CBE, who announced his departure from the SWASFT earlier this year following a three-year stint.

Dr John Martin said: "I am delighted to join the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust as Chief Executive.

"It will be a huge privilege to lead this organisation and work with our dedicated individuals and teams who continue to do their very best, every single day, to deliver the best possible care for our patients when they need us most.

"I also look forward to working closely with our health and care partners to support patients in the communities we serve."

The trust’s chair, Stephen Otter, said: "On behalf of the Board I would like to welcome Dr John Martin to the Trust.

"John really impressed the interview panel with his operational and clinical leadership, and passion for people and patients which aligns with our values, behaviours, and Trust Strategy.

"The board and I look forward to working with him over the coming months.

"I would again also like to offer my sincere thanks and best wishes for the future to Will Warrender for his dedication and leadership of the Trust over the last three years."

The search for a permanent Chief Executive to take over from the interim is currently underway with plans for them to start their tenure in August 2024.