Life Sciences Hub Wales has appointed Dr Chris Martin as its new chair.

WalesOnline reports he succeeds Professor Sir Mansel Aylward who is stepping down from the role, but will continue as a non-executive director on the board.

The hub, headquartered in Cardiff Bay, is an arm’s length body of Welsh Government with the aim of making Wales a place of choice for health, care, and wellbeing innovation, building strategic partnerships between industry, health, and social care.

Chris Martin has been the Vice Chair of Life Sciences Hub Wales since 2017, and has been interim chair for the last eighteen months. He is also deputy chair of the think tank the Bevan Commission.

Dr Martin, a pharmacist by background and previously chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said “It has been wonderful to see the growth and impact of Life Sciences Hub Wales over the last four years. I am proud of the organisation and the team behind it who are passionate to continue making a real difference to both the health and economy of Wales. I am also proud to be taking up this role and with the board, leading the organisation to have an even greater impact.

“I also want to acknowledge my colleague and friend, Professor Sir Mansel Aylward for his leadership of the organisation as chair – establishing it as key partner and resource for NHS Wales’ focus on innovation. I am delighted we will be retaining his energy and expertise as he remains with us on the board.”

Eluned Morgan, Minister for Health and Social Services, said “I am delighted that Dr Martin is taking up the substantive role of chair of Life Sciences Hub Wales. He brings considerable experience of both the health and economic sectors and has championed the critical role of industry in supporting the NHS Wales’ response to Covid-19. Dr Martin’s appointment will enable Life Sciences Hub Wales to continue ensuring that innovation is a key part in the recovery and transformation of our health and social services. I would also like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks and appreciation to Professor Sir Mansel Aylward who has been instrumental in helping to drive forward innovation in Wales.”

The hub’s Chief Executive Cari-Anne Quinn, said “We are already benefitting from Dr Martin’s leadership through his roles as vice, and currently, interim chair. He brings a real understanding of not only the organisation, but the life sciences sector and with our board will continue to provide us with strategic direction and governance. I, and the team, look forward to working with him in this new role.”