Jason Killens returns to lead London Ambulance Service

Jason Killens KAM has officially begun his role as Chief Executive of London Ambulance Service (LAS), returning to the organisation where his career in emergency care began nearly three decades ago.

Jason, who started with LAS in 1996 as a 21-year-old Emergency Medical Technician in north-east London, brings with him more than 30 years of experience in the ambulance sector—including senior leadership positions in both Australia and Wales.

“It’s great to be back at London Ambulance Service after 10 years away,” said Jason. “This is where my career began, and it feels like coming home. My focus now is on delivering improvements that ensure the Service is ready to meet the challenges of a growing and ageing population, and the rising demand on NHS services.”

During his earlier tenure at LAS, Jason worked operationally across North East, Central, and South East London before moving into leadership roles, including Executive Director of Operations. He played a pivotal role in the organisation’s response to major incidents such as the 7/7 London bombings and the 2012 Olympic Games.

Since leaving LAS, Jason has held international leadership roles, serving as Chief Executive of the South Australia Ambulance Service from 2015, and later leading the Welsh Ambulance Service from 2018. He also currently serves as Chair of the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE), a position that reflects his standing across the sector.

LAS Trust Chair Andy Trotter OBE QPM welcomed Jason’s return, saying: “I am delighted that Jason has hit the ground running and is already engaging with our clinicians across the Service. His extensive experience will be invaluable as LAS adapts to a changing healthcare landscape and helps shape the NHS of the future.

“Jason’s passion for high-quality, safe care and his commitment to supporting a highly skilled workforce will be a major asset—not just for our staff, but for the nine million people we serve across London.”

As Chief Executive, Jason will lead the UK’s busiest ambulance service at a time of significant transformation, with a focus on patient outcomes, operational resilience, and workforce development. His return marks a new chapter for LAS—guided by experience, driven by innovation, and grounded in a deep understanding of frontline care.

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