A NEW health chief is taking up the reins in Herefordshire.

Herefordshire Council has appointed Matt Pearce as its new director of public health.

The role puts him in charge of the health of the population of Herefordshire.

Matt brings considerable experience to the role, having worked in public health for over 15 years, a council spokesperson said.

His career has included roles with the NHS and local government. He has a strong background in building partnerships across the public, private and community sectors to improve people’s health and wellbeing.

Matt led West Berkshire Council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic and played a key role in the integrated care partnership. A sports science graduate, he also holds a postgraduate diploma in sports development and a master’s degree in public health.

OTHER NEWS:

Matt has a range of research interests and is visiting lecturer at the University of the West of England. He has been published in international, peer-reviewed scientific journals and has presented at national conferences.

Matt Pearce said: “I am excited about joining Herefordshire Council as director of public health. The last two years have been very challenging and, as we move to the next phase of the pandemic, I am looking forward to re-focus our efforts on the general health and wellbeing of all Herefordshire’s residents.”

Matt’s appointment means Dr Rebecca Howell-Jones will return to her role as consultant in public health for Herefordshire Council.

Paul Walker, Herefordshire Council’s chief executive, said: “I’d like to welcome Matt Pearce as Herefordshire’s permanent director of public health and I’d like to thank Rebecca Howell-Jones for the remarkable job she did in stepping up to lead the Herefordshire Covid public health response over the last two years. This really was as big a challenge as any health chief could expect to face.”