Changes to Hywel Dda University Health Board

5 April 2023

During the public board meeting on 30 March, two changes to Board membership were announced.

Paul Newman, an Independent Member of the Board, left the Board at the end of March 2023, as his tenure as Independent Member (Legal) came to an end.

Maria Battle, Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board, commented “It is with real regret that we see the departure of Mr Paul Newman as an Independent Member of the Board at the end of March as his tenure comes to an end. Paul has been an Independent Member since 2017, and has brought a depth of knowledge, skills and expertise to the Board.

“As the Chair of our Audit and Risk Assurance Committee, he has reformed how the Committee operates and significantly strengthened and improved the assurance that the Board receives on its internal control framework. I would like to sincerely thank Paul for his service, wise counsel and dedication in his role as a Board, Committee Member and to NHS Wales and wish him well for the future.”

Miss Maria Battle, Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board also shared her intention to retire at the end of her tenure later this year: “As we wish Paul well, I also feel it is timely to share that my tenure as Chair will come to an end in August this year. To ensure continuity of the role as I step into retirement, I have, in discussion with the Minister for Health and Social Services, Eluned Morgan MS, agreed that I will stay in post as Chair until the end of October 2023 while we recruit to the position.”

“It has been an honour to serve as Chair of the Health Board, and work alongside our dedicated staff and Board Members who work tirelessly every day to ensure the health and care of our patients and population and to deliver our ambitious strategy. I am sure that in the coming months there will be plenty of opportunity to meet and thank individuals who have supported me in this time.

“I encourage individuals who are interested in supporting the future ambitions of our Health Board to apply for the position of Chair or Independent Member (Legal). I look forward to working with the new appointees to ensure a smooth transition in leadership, and thank colleagues for their continued support in the interim.”

The appointment of Independent Board Members to health boards are public appointments by Welsh Government. Individuals interested in applying for the role of Chair or Independent Member (Legal) are encouraged to apply at: Public Appointments - Welsh Government (tal.net)