Friday 3 November, 2023: The Prior of St John England and Chair of St John Ambulance, Stuart Shilson, has today (03) announced CEO, Martin Houghton-Brown, will leave the charity at the end of March 2024, following six years in the role.

In that time, Martin has successfully steered St John through the coronavirus pandemic, delivering for the nation in a time of crisis when St John People were called to serve. He has also been instrumental in helping the charity develop its volunteering and youth offering – training the next generation of young lifesavers.

Prior and Chair of St John Ambulance, Stuart Shilson, said: “I want to thank Martin for his service to St John over the last 6 years, and for his extraordinary leadership during a tough time for the not-for-profit sector. 

“Post-pandemic, St John, like many charities, is experiencing a challenging financial situation. We continue to work through the transformation programme to enable us to deliver a sustainable charity for the future, focused on community first aid. I am grateful for Martin’s leadership through the first phase of our recovery until the end of March, and look forward to the opportunity to bring in a fresh perspective for the next stage of that journey. 

“I, and the whole of St John, wish Martin well in his next leadership role and look forward to his continued friendship and support for the mission of this wonderful charity.” 

CEO for St John Ambulance Martin Houghton-Brown said: “St John has demonstrated in extraordinary ways how it can build the resilience of communities and I remain in awe of the contribution made by the charity’s volunteers, young people and employees alike. I believe the future focussing on Community First Aid, is an exciting one. 

“It has been a privilege to serve for these past six years. My time at St John will always be an extraordinary chapter and I have learned a great deal. As I support the transformation programme in these last few months, I am grateful for the support of an incredible leadership team. I wish my successor and all St John people every success as they build for the future.”