Executive Director of Allied Health Professionals, Health Scientists and Community Services Development

Emma joined Cardiff and Vale University Health Board in 2015 and became the Executive Director of Allied Health Professionals (AHPs), Health Science and Community Development in June 2024. Emma is a physiotherapist, and has worked across health systems in the UK, New Zealand, and Australia. Emma holds a PhD studying the efficacy of functional strength training on the restoration of lower limb motor function early after stroke and is published in this field. Emma has been a peer reviewer for the Royal College of Physicians Stroke Guidelines and presented her work nationally and internationally. 

Her leadership experience includes roles as Chief Therapist and AHP Lead at St George’s University Hospitals Foundation Trust in London, as well as Head of Physiotherapy Services, Clinical Director of AHPs and Deputy Director of Therapies and Health Science in Cardiff and Vale. Currently, she leads the Value Based Rehabilitation Programme, has an interest in the importance of timely and equitable access to rehabilitation. 

Emma advocates for co-production, supported self-management, shared decision-making, and strong cross-sector partnerships. She is passionate about empowering individuals to lead healthier lives through community-based solutions and has received five national healthcare awards for her contributions to the field.