West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust has welcomed a new non-executive director.

Edwin Josephs, who will begin his role later this month, brings with him nearly two decades of board-level experience - and as part of his role, he will chair the trust’s audit sub-committee.

NHS non-executive directors ensure that the board acts in the best interests of patients and the public, holding the executive directors to account and also work with them to formulate strategies by bringing independent, external perspectives.

Mr Josephs, who lives in Abbots Langley, has had senior roles in the public and charity sectors and was previously a non-executive board member for Chartered Institute of Management Accountants UK.

The qualified chartered management accountant also worked for a hospital trust in Buckinghamshire, in a variety of roles including finance and auditing and senior leadership.

Following his appointment, Mr Josephs said: "What an exciting time to join West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust. I am delighted to be part of an organisation with such a bright future.

"With new hospital buildings on the horizon and a recent history of year-on-year improvements in key performance measures, the staff are clearly working hard on behalf of their patients. I look forward to being part of such a high-achieving team."

Hospital Trust chairman Phil Townsend said: "We are delighted that Edwin is joining us and that we will benefit from his considerable expertise and experience.

"He is going to be a great addition to the board especially in these challenging times."