Health Secretary Vaughan Gething has announced the appointment of Mark Polin as the new Chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB).

The Welsh Government reports Mark Polin is currently the Chief Constable of North Wales Police and has had fourteen years executive experience in a number of highly demanding roles. He has worked in several other police forces and has a proven track record of leading and improving performance, underpinned by organisational development and cultural change, as well as managing risk and reputation. He will retire from his current role in July and take up the role of Chair of BCUHB from September.

Vaughan Gething said “I am pleased to announce Mark Polin has been appointed to the role of Chair of BCU. He will bring a wealth of public sector leadership, governance experience, commitment to and knowledge of the communities of North Wales from his role as Chief Constable of North Wales Police. He will help to lead the Health Board through this next critical phase of its improvement journey.”

Mark Polin said “I am delighted to have been selected for the position of Chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. I look forward to working with all members of the Board, including the executive team, to improve health and wellbeing across North Wales and develop a clear path by which to steer the Board out of special measures. My research prior to selection served to highlight the scale of the challenge we face but I am confident that through clear direction, leadership, joint endeavour and good governance – coupled with the continuing support and scrutiny of Welsh Government – the necessary improvements can be achieved. I would hope my public sector experience, my knowledge of and commitment to the communities of North Wales and my existing relationships with partner organisations will also assist us all to move forward together.”