A new chief executive has been appointed to lead Cumbria Health.
Ross Brand will succeed Susan Blakemore, who will retire in May after more than 20 years with the organisation.
Ross has served as chief executive officer of PHL Group since 2018. He joined the organisation in 2016 as chief operating officer and has led the development of a range of integrated healthcare services across the UK.
Prior to this, Ross held senior roles at HUC Healthcare and the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust. He began his career in frontline care as a paramedic, ambulance crew member, and healthcare assistant.
Cumbria Health has developed from its origins as an out-of-hours service into a diverse provider of healthcare services across Cumbria.
Ross said: “I’m genuinely honoured to be joining Cumbria Health as chief executive and to have the opportunity to work alongside such a committed and experienced team.
“Over the past few months, I’ve had the chance to meet many colleagues and partners, and it is clear to me that Cumbria Health is an organisation with a strong reputation and a real sense of purpose.
“The passion people have for supporting patients and communities across Cumbria is evident everywhere I have looked. I’m excited about what we can achieve together in the coming years.”
Ed Tallis, chair of Cumbria Health said: “We are delighted to welcome Ross to Cumbria Health. He brings a strong track record of leadership, a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape, and a commitment to high-quality, patient-centred care.
“We are confident he will build on the strong foundations established by Susan and continue to drive the organisation forward.”
