Frances Martin – Chair

Frances Martin was appointed as the Chair of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust from 1 April 2026.

Frances has taken up the Chair role across both Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust and Wye Valley NHS Trust, succeeding Russell Hardy.

A highly respected non-executive member of the joint board since 2021, Frances brings extensive leadership experience across health and social care.

Originally training as a mental health nurse, she built a 40-year career spanning acute, ambulance, community and primary care services, working in operational, regulatory, commissioning and strategic roles.

After taking early retirement in 2018, Frances worked as an independent consultant in the health sector with a focus on strategy, governance, and organisational and personal development.

Frances said: “I am deeply honoured to be appointed as Chair of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust and Wye Valley NHS Trust. I believe we are on a clear journey of improvement that is already delivering real benefits for patients and staff.

“I’m keen to build on the legacy and strong foundations laid under the leadership of Russell Hardy, whose chairmanship has helped the Trusts flourish.

“Both Trusts have a strong culture of innovation and improvement, and I look forward to supporting and strengthening that as we continue to work with partners to deliver modern, high-quality care – the kind we would all want for our own friends and family.”