Beaman has served as a non-executive director since 2023 and as vice-chair since 2024. He currently chairs the Quality Assurance Board Committee. He has served as a consultant physician and nephrologist.
Prof Balch, who has served as chair since 2024, said: ‘It remains a privilege and an honour to serve as chair. Over the past two years we have made real progress together: refreshing our organisational strategy, strengthening quality and patient safety, improving access and laying firm foundations for the future.
‘A key part of that future is the implementation of our electronic patient record, but I am frustrated by the delay in our New Hospital Programme despite the investment we are seeing in some of our facilities. We need more capital investment to give our teams the tools they need to deliver modern, effective care and a better experience for patients and staff.'
Beaman said: ‘I am genuinely privileged to be appointed as chair of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust. Having worked alongside so many dedicated colleagues in Devon, both in clinical practice and as vice-chair, I know how committed our teams are to delivering the best possible care.
‘As we look ahead, I am particularly keen to ensure that a strong, constructive clinical voice continues to help shape our future service delivery. I look forward to working collaboratively with colleagues and partners to build on the strong foundations laid by Professor Chris Balch and to continue delivering high-quality care for our communities.'
Chief executive, Joe Teape, added: ‘Martin's clinical expertise, commitment to quality, and collaborative approach will be invaluable as we continue to develop our services and deliver for our patients and communities.
‘I would also like to thank Professor Chris Balch for his outstanding leadership and support. Chris has made a significant contribution to both our organisation and the NHS in Devon and I am grateful for the guidance he has provided to me and to colleagues.'
Beaman will join the trust from May 2026.
