New Director of Public Health for Herefordshire

A new Director of Public Health has been appointed in Herefordshire.

Matt Pearce has taken up the role that 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. His career has included roles with the NHS and local government.

He led West Berkshire Council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic and played a key role in the integrated care partnership. 

Mr 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, says: “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.”