As the Deputy Director for PHE South West since 2015, Debbie has already overseen a range of public health issues and achievements in the South West, working alongside key partners in the local health system. These include reducing health inequalities across the region and responding to public health emergencies such as the Novichok incidents in Wiltshire in 2018 and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Before joining PHE in 2013, Debbie was the Director of Public Health for Torbay. She worked for both the NHS and the Local Authority on improving local health and led the response to the first case of swine flu in England in 2009.

She said: “I am thrilled to be appointed to this role and excited to continue to support my colleagues and partners during this difficult time.

“COVID-19 has been a challenge to all of us: individuals, communities and the services that support them. We need to continue to protect the health of our population but also take every opportunity to make it stronger and more resilient. I am looking forward to playing my part in making that happen.”

Professor Paul Johnstone National Director for Places and Regions, Public Health England said:

“This is a key leadership appointment nationally as well as for the South West, and jointly with the NHS Region and with support from local partners.

“Regional Directors of Public Health are important roles going forward as systems leaders working with the new National Institute for Health Protection, the NHS and public health at every level. We are delighted that Debbie has been appointed.”

Elizabeth O’Mahony South West Regional Director, NHS England and NHS Improvement said:

“I am delighted to welcome Debbie Stark’s appointment. She has been acting into this role recently, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, and I am thrilled that she was successful at interview.

“Debbie is a key part of the South West leadership team, providing direction and guidance to the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in outbreak management. Her excellent work in prevention programmes to improve physical and mental health and tackling health inequalities will help us in our ambition to ensure good healthcare for nearly 6 million people living in our region.”

Debbie has also been invited to be a visiting professor at Plymouth University as part of the Faculty of Health. She is delighted to strengthen the links between PHE and the University and is looking forward to supporting them.