SCAS and SECAmb appoint new Group Chief Executive

South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust and South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust have announced the appointment of Simon Ashton as Group Chief Executive, providing executive leadership across both organisations.

His appointment follows a joint recruitment process and confirmation by both Councils of Governors. He is due to take up the role in the autumn, helping lead the next stage of development for the emerging Ambulance Group and building on existing collaboration between the two trusts.

As Group Chief Executive, Simon Ashton will work across both SCAS and SECAmb, alongside new Group Chair Colin Dennis, both Trust Boards, Governors, staff and partner organisations, to support the delivery of safe, effective and high-quality urgent and emergency care across the South East.

Mr Ashton brings nearly 30 years of NHS experience, including more than a decade in executive leadership positions. Clinically trained as a physiotherapist, he has held senior clinical, operational and strategic roles, overseeing large-scale clinical services, infrastructure investment, financial recovery, population health partnerships and joint working across integrated care systems.

He is currently Chief Executive of Newham University Hospital, part of Barts Health NHS Trust, one of the largest and most complex NHS organisations in the country. During his time there, he has led major improvement and transformation work across hospital and system settings, with a focus on leadership, workforce engagement, quality, safety and performance.

The appointment comes as both ambulance trusts continue to strengthen joint working in areas including workforce planning, digital development, clinical collaboration, service resilience and staff wellbeing.

Michael Whitehouse, Chair of SECAmb, said: “Simon brings a strong combination of clinical credibility, operational experience and values driven leadership. Throughout the appointment process, he demonstrated a clear understanding of the pressures facing ambulance services, alongside a strong commitment to collaboration, compassion and improvement. We are confident that Simon will provide the visible, inclusive leadership our people and communities need as we take forward our Group model.”

Professor Sir Keith Willett, Chair of SCAS, said: “This is a significant appointment for both organisations. Simon’s track record of leading complex NHS services, improving performance and working effectively with partners stood out. He brings the right balance of strategic focus and attention to people, and we are delighted to welcome him as Group Chief Executive at such a pivotal time for SCAS and SECAmb.”

Speaking about his appointment, Simon Ashton said: “I am honoured to be appointed as the first Group Chief Executive for South Central Ambulance Service and South East Coast Ambulance Service. Both organisations play a vital role in their communities, and I have been hugely impressed by the professionalism, skill and dedication of staff across both Trusts.

“I am excited to work with our colleagues, Boards, Governors and partners to build on the strong foundations already in place. Together, we will continue to strengthen collaboration, support our frontline teams and improve outcomes for patients, ensuring our ambulance services are resilient, responsive and sustainable for the future.”

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