A chief executive has stepped down from his role after three years of service.
Simon Weldon left South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SECAmb) on Friday, April 17 after joining in April 2023 during a challenging period when the trust had been rated ‘Inadequate’ and placed into special measures.
During his time in the role, Mr Weldon developed a clinically led five-year strategy that helped drive improvements across the trust.
Michael Whitehouse, chairman of SECAmb, said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Simon for his exceptional leadership and service to SECAmb.
“He joined the organisation at a very difficult time and has led with integrity, determination and clarity of purpose.
“The progress made over the past three years reflects his leadership and, crucially, the commitment, professionalism and resilience of our staff.
“He leaves the Trust in a far stronger position and well placed for the future.”
Under Mr Weldon’s leadership, SECAmb made substantial progress in patient care, operations and organisational culture.
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In March 2025, following sustained improvement, NHS England confirmed the trust would exit special measures.
Recent inspections have highlighted a more confident organisation with a stronger focus on delivering safe, high-quality care, though final reports are still pending.
The trust has maintained strong emergency response performance and some of the highest cardiac arrest survival rates in the country.
Improvements in staff experience have also been recorded, with survey results showing a sustained upward trend over the past three years.
Anne Eden, NHS England regional director, said: “Simon has led SECAmb with clarity, compassion and a deep commitment to patients and staff.
“The progress the Trust has made over the past three years is significant and hard-won, and it reflects both his leadership and the dedication of colleagues across the organisation and we are very grateful for his service.”
Mr Weldon also oversaw the introduction of a divisional operating model to improve local decision-making and fostered more constructive relationships with trade unions to strengthen workforce wellbeing.
Jen Allan will step into the role of interim CEO, with the trust thanking Mr Weldon for his “leadership and dedication.