Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust hires new chief people officer

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust has hired Shajeda Ahmed as its new chief people officer from 1 January 2026. 

Ahmed is to succeed Matt Joint, who will retire after more than four and a half years in the role.

She has more than 20 years of leadership experience across both public and private sectors, including senior NHS, national and global roles in retail and manufacturing.

Ahmed has a progressive and innovative approach to people management and has led award-winning work in organisational development and inclusion. Her aim is to create a diverse, engaged and supported workforce, and believes this drives better decision making, innovation and care provided to patients and communities. 

Ahmed said: “I’m pleased to be joining Frimley Health at such an exciting time. My focus will be on building an inclusive and supportive environment where every employee feels valued, has opportunities to grow, and is empowered to deliver the best possible care for our patients. Together, I know we will make Frimley Health one of the very best places to work in the NHS.”

Lance McCarthy, chief executive at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, added: “I am delighted that Shajeda will be joining us in the new year. Shajeda is an experienced chief people officer who has also undertaken national and global private sector roles and is perfectly positioned to help us continue to make this the best place to work in the NHS.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Matt for his leadership of the People team over the last four years and the improvements made and to wish him well with his retirement.”