Trust appoints new designate non-executive director

Sonia Davidson-Grant has been appointed as a designate non-executive director to serve on the board of Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

Sonia is an independent consultant and programme manager with significant public sector experience in the United Kingdom and overseas. She is skilled in leading major change programmes, strategic planning and providing specialist advice on governance and sustainability issues.

“I am delighted to accept the role,” said Sonia. “As a resident of Ilfracombe, I know how important local health services are to our communities.

“I also appreciate the significant changes taking place across the NHS. I am really looking forward to working alongside staff and our partners to build upon the excellent services they deliver to local people and, jointly, face the challenges ahead.”

Sonia is a board member of UK Trade and Investment’s (UKTI) Environment and Water Advisory Group and Sustainable Cities Advisory Group, which provide advice to UK central government ministries. She is also an associate director of Atkins Global and a strategic advisor to ADEPT, the UK Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning and Transport.

She has previously held the roles of deputy chief executive and executive director in unitary, county and district councils, with responsibility for environmental services, housing, regeneration, the fire service and emergency planning.

Sonia has also supported ministries in the State of Qatar as a senior advisor.

Roger French, chairman of the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “We are delighted to welcome Sonia to the board.

“She brings a wealth of experience to the role and this will be invaluable in helping us take the organisation forwards.”