Dr Alison Walker has been named as the new executive medical director for South Western Ambulance Service Foundation Trust (SWASFT).

She will join the organisation in April from Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) where she currently has the same role.

Dr Walker brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the newly-enlarged SWASFT. In addition to her role at YAS, she is medical director for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

In 2012, she became chair of the National Ambulance Service Medical Directors’ Group and has been regional chair of the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care Group (Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh) since 2007.

SWASFT chief executive Ken Wenman said: “I am delighted Alison is joining the trust to expand the important clinical leadership role. She is passionate about working with all frontline staff to ensure patients receive the very best clinical care.”

Dr Walker will spend four days a week with SWASFT. Dr Andy Smith will continue to work for the trust as associate medical director, together with Dr Phil Cowburn, associate medical director — acute care, which further enhances the clinical focus and support within the trust.

Dr Walker's other roles have included medical advisor to the Chief Fire Officers Association Immediate Emergency Care Group and member of the Joint Royal Colleges Ambulance Liaison Committee (JRCALC).

She said: “I am delighted to be joining South Western Ambulance Service. Ambulance clinicians and systems can make a real difference to patient outcomes and I am keen to apply my experience for the benefit of staff and patients.”