Email: melanie.saunders@aace.org.uk
An experienced and values-driven HR executive with over 25 years of experience in the Ambulance Service and NHS, including nearly a decade as Chief People Officer at South Central Ambulance Service. Widely recognised for leading complex workforce transformation across local, regional, and national systems, and for driving strategic people initiatives in response to some of the NHS’s most significant challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic.
A trusted senior leader and former national Chair of the AACE Chief People Officer Network and co-Chair of the National Ambulance Social Partnership Forum (2017-2022), with expertise in shaping national workforce strategy, negotiating sector-wide terms and workforce policies with national Trade Unions, workforce planning, cultural change, governance, and integrated care systems. Most recently Melanie has worked as an interim Consultant helping design integrated and scaled People Services across multiple NHS Trusts.
Noted for building resilient, inclusive, and high-performing teams, introducing ‘Just Culture’ frameworks, and championing compassionate leadership. A proven collaborator with system partners, universities and national bodies, with a strong track record in improving organisational culture, modernising HR services, and shaping national workforce policy.
