Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jason Holt as the new Chair of its Board of Trustees. This appointment comes at a crucial time for the charity, as its vital air ambulance and critical care service is in high demand.
Holt brings a wealth of experience and leadership skills to the role, having previously chaired several complex organizations in logistics and medical healthcare. He also has a background in sitting on charity boards for armed forces personnel wellbeing. His desire to give back to the community and support important causes aligns perfectly with GWAAC’s mission.
Currently, Holt serves as Chair of EDX Medical Group PLC and was appointed by the Secretary of State for Transport as Chair of Dover Harbour Board. He is also the Chief Executive and a Board Director of European Cargo Limited. His previous roles include serving as Whitehall’s Chief Executive of Test at UK Government DHSS Test & Trace, Chief Executive and Chairman of Swissport Western Europe, Executive Vice President and Board Member of Cargolux International SA Luxembourg, and Director of Strategy at EasyJet Airlines. Holt’s early career as a Squadron Leader in the UK Royal Air Force and attendance at the Empire Test Pilot’s School have also contributed to his extensive experience in the airline industry.
Holt’s personal connection to GWAAC’s work also played a role in his decision to join the charity. 12 years ago, he was first on the scene of a serious road traffic collision and witnessed the life-saving impact of an air ambulance crew.
“I am honored to be joining the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity team as its new Chair of the Board of Trustees. I am especially looking forward to expanding GWAAC’s presence within the West as it continues to assist individuals in times of urgent need,” says Holt.
Anna Perry, Chief Executive of GWAAC, expresses her excitement about Holt’s appointment, stating, “I am thrilled that Jason is our new Chair of the Board of Trustees. With his expertise and dedication to supporting our vital work, I am confident he will help guide GWAAC as we strive to deliver excellent standards of pre-hospital critical care to an increasing number of people in need in our region.”
As Holt takes on his new role, GWAAC would also like to thank its former Chair of the Board of Trustees, Martyn Drake, for his hard work and commitment over the years. Since 2019, Drake has played a key role in strengthening the entire organization, leading its efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing the number of operational missions, diversifying revenue streams, and implementing effective business practices while maintaining the charity’s social purpose. Although he has stepped down as Chair, Drake will remain on the Board until the end of his term, totaling nine years of dedicated service.
Holt officially began his tenure with GWAAC in December 2024 and will work alongside Drake during a transitional phase. He will serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees until Spring 2028, with the possibility of extending his tenure.
About GWAAC:
GWAAC is responsible for providing critical care and air ambulance services to 2.1 million people in Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset, and parts of Wiltshire.
The GWAAC Critical Care Team comprises highly trained and experienced Critical Care Doctors, Advanced Practitioners, and Specialist Paramedics in Critical Care, who bring the skills and expertise of a hospital emergency department to the patient.
In 2024, GWAAC had its busiest year on record, responding to 2,272 people in urgent need of immediate critical care. On average, the charity’s Critical Care Team responds to more than six patients a day by helicopter or critical care car, with the cost of each mission averaging around £2,200.
GWAAC relies on donations to raise over £4 million a year to remain operational and receives no day-to-day funding from the Government or National Lottery.
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