Ansaf Azhar named as county council's new Director of Public Health

Ansaf Azhar has been appointed as Oxfordshire County Council’s new Director of Public Health.

Ansaf was the Interim Director of Public Health for Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council in the West Midlands and will take up his new post in August.

“I am thrilled to join Oxfordshire County Council as the new Director of Public Health,” said Ansaf. “I started my career as a pharmacist and soon moved into Public Health as I am passionate about improving population health and reducing inequalities.

“I believe we have a fantastic opportunity to build on the good work done in Oxfordshire so far and continue to create a healthy place with our residents. A place that will promote healthy behaviours and thriving communities whilst reducing inequalities across Oxfordshire.”

Ansaf replaces Jonathan McWilliam, who left the county council in January.

Yvonne Rees (CEO) praised Val Messenger for stepping into the role of Interim Director following his departure.

She said: “Val has embraced the role and truly ensured the voice of Public Health is heard - leading improvement and integration from the front. I look forward to continuing to work with Val and Ansaf to build on the excellent work already under way and to further advance the well-being of our residents.”

Val added: “I am absolutely delighted to be working with Ansaf. There are huge opportunities for Public Health in Oxfordshire and it is fantastic to have our new Director of Public Health in post to lead the way.”