North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust has appointed Lisa Ward as its first Director of People. With 20 years’ experience of working for the ambulance service and over 30 years’ experience of working in human resources, Lisa has previously held the position of Interim Director of Organisational Development, since 2018. As part of her new role, Lisa will continue to sit on the Board of Directors and her focus will be around the trust’s greatest asset: Team NWAS.
Lisa said, “The role will focus on driving forward our workforce strategy to develop the potential of our people, working to support them, engage with them, educate them and ensure they have fulfilling career opportunities.
“It has been brilliant to be able to cover the interim position over the last two years and to make a difference in supporting our staff and volunteers and delivering care to our patients. I have been supported by an amazing team and I’m really excited to be able to push forward and deliver our strategy to develop, engage and empower our people.”
Lisa officially took up post on Saturday 1 August.
Chief Executive Daren Mochrie said, “I’m delighted to welcome Lisa onto our Board of Directors on a permanent basis. She has a wealth of experience and her passion for our people really shines through.
“I am confident that Lisa will continue to ensure that our hardworking staff and volunteers are well supported and looked after to help them deliver the best possible care to our patients. I look forward to continuing to work together towards our aim to be the best ambulance service in the country.”
Over the last few months, Lisa has been leading on the trust’s workforce response throughout the pandemic.
Lisa continued, “During the pandemic we have been able to quickly adapt to challenges that have arisen as a result of COVID-19, finding new ways to grow and upskill our workforce, engage meaningfully with our staff and to support their wellbeing.
“I am exceptionally proud of that way that our staff have supported each other, both on the frontline and behind the scenes. Everyone has really worked together for each other and our patients. I have always known we have a very special bunch of people in Team NWAS but the care, passion and commitment I have seen in recent months has been absolutely incredible. I am extremely proud.
“As we look to the future, my focus will be to keep the momentum going with the health and wellbeing support we have in place for our staff, recognising the long term impact that the pandemic is likely to have and to develop a supportive culture where everyone can thrive and deliver their potential.”
