Emma Woollett has been appointed as chair of NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB.

Woollett was chair of Swansea Bay University Health Board and chair of West Glamorgan Regional Partnership Board until recently, and a member of the board of trustees at the NHS Confederation.

Her previous experience also includes work as an independent management consultant providing strategic support to acute NHS providers nationwide, alongside positions as non-executive director, and vice-chair at the University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust.

Woolett said: ‘I believe the ICB has a clear vision and strong ambitions to improve quality, transform care in the community and address the challenges our NHS services face across acute, mental health and primary care. I am excited to be able to draw on my previous experience to help further the progress that has already been made.'

ICB chief executive, Kevin Lavery, added: ‘With her vast experience in supporting public sector and charitable organisations to navigate and embrace change in line with clear strategic goals, I am sure that Emma will encourage a solution-focused approach to the ongoing development of our health and care system.'

Woollett's appointment begins on 1 September, taking over from acting chair Roy Fisher, who replaced David Flory in March this year.