New Non-Executive Director appointed at The Walton Centre

Date: 03 January 2023

Irene Afful

The Walton Centre is pleased to announce Irene Afful has joined the Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director.

Irene has extensive experience working in a multi-agency capacity, spending 25 years with Merseyside Police Service. There, she created and delivered the Phoenix Leadership Programme, a positive action initiative aimed at increasing recruitment of minority groups to the police service. During her career, Irene also became the first black female Detective Inspector with Merseyside Police Service, and took on roles including being instrumental in re-establishing and chairing the Black Police Association and as Female Vice President of the National Black Police Association.

Retiring in 2016, Irene then became an award-winning businesswoman, delivering a coaching and consultancy service, supporting organisations in attracting and retaining under-represented groups in leadership, community engagement and personal coaching.

Chairman of The Walton Centre Max Steinberg CBE said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to appoint Irene to our Board. I’m confident her exceptional experience in the police service, and her skills in organisational change, will be a positive influence on the team and the wider organisation.”

Chief Executive Jan Ross said: “Irene will be a fantastic presence in the team. In particular, drawing on Irene’s vast experience in safeguarding and the equality and diversity agenda will enable us to navigate an uncertain future when it comes to recruitment and retention, a challenge felt across the NHS.”

Irene she said: “I am really excited to be joining the Board at The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust. The hospital provides an outstanding service to its patients and families. I have had personal experience of the excellent service provided to family and friends and I’m looking forward to supporting the Trust with continuous improvement in its services to support patients, families, staff and the wider community.”

  • Summary:

    The Walton Centre is pleased to announce Irene Afful has joined the Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director.