Salman Desai

Salman Desai was appointed Chief Executive Officer of North West Ambulance Service on 1 January 2025. Prior to this, he served as Deputy CEO, Chief Operating Officer, and Director of Strategy, Partnerships and Transformation.

Salman began his career in 1997 with Greater Manchester Ambulance Service as a paramedic. Over his 29-year career, he has taken on numerous leadership roles and has served on the Board of Directors since 2015. In 2022, he was awarded the King’s Ambulance Medal (KAM) for distinguished service and exemplary dedication.

Alongside his executive responsibilities, Salman has played a key role in strengthening NWAS’ Race Equality Network, supporting its development into a more formal, focused and impactful body. He previously chaired the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Committee, where he led work to improve the experiences of Black and Minority Ethnic staff and the patients who use NWAS services.

Salman also established NWAS’ Patient & Public Panel to ensure the trust listens and learns from communities of all ages and backgrounds. This work has supported service improvement and helped address the health inequalities that widened during the pandemic. Panel members contribute lived experience and insight across a wide range of topics, influencing projects, learning forums and key committees, including the Board.