Velindre University NHS Trust appoints new Executive Director of Workforce and Organisational Development

12 August 2026

Velindre University NHS Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Sarah Green as Executive Director of Workforce and Organisational Development.

Sarah will join the Trust from NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board (ICB), where she currently serves as a director and recently as a Chief People Officer. She brings extensive experience across workforce, organisational development, education, culture and clinical leadership. Her strong track record includes leading complex transformation programmes and developing compassionate, inclusive workplace cultures.

The appointment comes at an important time for the Trust as it continues to deliver significant organisational change at Velindre Cancer Service and the Welsh Blood Service. Through these services, the Trust provides specialist cancer care, pioneering treatments, blood and stem cell services, research, and innovation that improve and save lives across Wales every day.

The Trust also hosts NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership, Health Technology Wales, and Advanced Therapies Wales.

As a new member of the Trust's Executive Team, Sarah brings experience from across the health and care system, having worked in NHS provider organisations, integrated care systems, local government, higher education, adult social care and the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector. She began her NHS career as a nurse before qualifying as a midwife and has gone on to lead a range of clinical, operational, and workforce services throughout her career.

A Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), Sarah holds an MSc in Policy Studies and a Doctorate exploring social theory, learning and organisations. Throughout her career, she has focused on strengthening leadership capability, developing inclusive cultures and creating workforce solutions that improve services for staff and the communities they serve.

Carl James, Chief Executive of Velindre University NHS Trust, said:

"We are delighted to welcome Sarah to the Trust. Throughout the recruitment process, Sarah demonstrated the values, leadership qualities and strategic vision we were looking for. She brings a wealth of experience in workforce, organisational development and transformation, alongside a genuine commitment to supporting people and creating inclusive cultures.

"Sarah joins us at an exciting and important time for the Trust. As we continue to evolve our services and prepare for the opening of the new Velindre Cancer Centre, our people will be central to our success. I am looking forward to working with Sarah to ensure colleagues feel valued, supported and empowered to deliver the very best services for the people of Wales."

Sarah said:

"I am delighted to be joining the organisation at such an exciting point in its journey. Throughout my career, I have believed that people are our greatest strength and that creating the right culture enables colleagues to do their very best for patients, donors and the communities we serve.

"From my first conversations with colleagues, I have been inspired by the warmth of the welcome, the ambition for the future and the passion that exists across the Trust. I am looking forward to listening, learning and working alongside colleagues and partners as we continue to build an inclusive, compassionate and high-performing organisation that is equipped to meet the opportunities and challenges of the future."

Sarah will take up her new role later this year. Outside work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, keeping active and making the most of time with family and friends.

As Velindre Cancer Service celebrates its 70th anniversary and the Welsh Blood Service approaches 80 years of service, the appointment reflects the Trust's continued investment in its people and its commitment to creating a workplace where colleagues can thrive, innovate and deliver the very best care for the people of Wales.