Currently chair of Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Earwicker's board-level experience includes serving as chief executive of the Ministry of Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, chief executive of the Science Museum, and vice-chancellor of London South Bank University. More recently, he has held non-executive director positions, including with Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

Earwicker will take over from the outgoing chair Steve Erskine who leaves at the end of the year having served the maximum six-year term. Over the coming months, the pair will work together to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

Earwicker said: ‘This is an exciting time to join the trust as it looks to the future, working with partners to modernise healthcare for the benefit of the communities it serves.'

Alex Whitfield, Hampshire Hospitals' chief executive, added: ‘Martin's exceptional leadership experience across diverse sectors, along with his understanding of health and social care, will be invaluable to our staff and the communities we serve. Martin's visionary approach and values-driven leadership will help guide the Trust as we continue to deliver outstanding care and navigate both the opportunities and challenges ahead.

‘I also want to share my huge thanks to Steve Erskine who has been an exemplary chair over the last six years and a living example of our trust values.'

Earwicker, who will officially take up his role on 1 January 2025, will also be continuing in the role as chair of Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust for a few months to ensure a smooth handover to his successor.