He has 40 years of experience working at board level in both the commercial sector and NHS.

Most recently, von der Heyde served as chair of Somerset ICB from 2021, and prior to that as chair of Yeovil District Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust from 2012.

He said: ‘It is clear to see the passion and commitment of the staff and governors in each organisation to unite behind a common purpose to deliver the best possible care, outcomes and experience to those who need our services across BSW and beyond.

‘I am looking forward to working with them and our wider partners across health and social care to unlock opportunities, address shared challenges and shape the future together.'

Cara Charles-Barks, chief executive at BSW Hospitals Group, said: 'Paul brings a wealth of experience in partnership working and a collaborative and patient-focused approach. I look forward to working with him to develop a group that delivers care that is centred around patients - not organisations, ensures our people and resources are focused where they can make the greatest difference, create a solid foundation for the future and be a strong voice for our communities.

'I would like to thank our current Chairs Liam Coleman and Eiri Jones for their significant contributions to our organisations and in our journey as a group to date.'