A new chief executive has been appointed to lead a major health service provider in Cumbria.
Ross Brand will take up the role at Cumbria Health, succeeding Susan Blakemore, who will retire in May 2026 after more than 20 years with the organisation.
Mr Brand will join the organisation and work closely with Ms Blakemore to ensure a smooth leadership handover.
Mr Brand 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."
Mr Brand brings extensive experience in urgent and primary care, having served as CEO of PHL Group since 2018.
He joined PHL in 2016 as chief operating officer and has been instrumental in developing integrated healthcare services across the UK.
Ed Tallis, chairman 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."
Founded as an out-of-hours service, Cumbria Health has since evolved into a wider provider of healthcare services across the region.
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