Former SCIE boss Kathryn Marsden OBE named new Yorkshire Air Ambulance Chief Executive

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) has announced the appointment of Kathryn Marsden OBE as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition for the life-saving charity.

Ms Marsden, who currently leads the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE), will formally take up the position on 9 March 2026. Her appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the charity, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and is currently undergoing a multi-million-pound infrastructure expansion.

With more than 36 years of experience leading health and social care organisations across the UK, Ms Marsden is a highly respected figure in the sector. Her contributions were formally recognised in the 2025 King’s New Year Honours list, where she was awarded an OBE for services to social care.

In her new role, she will oversee the charity’s strategic direction and financial sustainability, ensuring the service continues to meet rigorous safety and clinical governance standards.

Mike Harrop, Chair of Trustees at YAA, welcomed the appointment, stating: “Kathryn’s experience in the care sector and clear commitment to our mission will be invaluable as we continue to develop, enhance and deliver life-saving critical care to patients across Yorkshire.”

Ms Marsden joins YAA as it embarks on a long-term strategy to invest in clinical capabilities through to 2035. The charity is also in the midst of a major capital project: the construction of a new Northern airbase at Skipton Bridge, near Thirsk.

Once operational in late summer 2026, the Thirsk site will work alongside the existing base at Nostell, near Wakefield, to provide comprehensive emergency coverage across the region.

Reflecting on her appointment, Ms Marsden said: “I am honoured to be appointed as the new CEO of YAA and feel very privileged to be joining such a well-loved and respected charity. I look forward to working with the highly skilled crews, staff, volunteers, and supporters who make this vital service possible.”

As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies heavily on public donations to maintain its rapid-response service, which provides critical care to patients during their most urgent time of need.