One Eastern Devon (OED), the place-based local care partnership serving over 400,000 people across Eastern Devon, is entering a new chapter in its leadership journey.

After two years of dedicated service, Councillor Ian Hall, county councillor and Royal Devon Governor is stepping down from his role as co-chair having chosen not to stand in the recent County Council elections. Ian leaves behind a legacy of inclusive, values-led leadership that helped shape OED from its inception in 2023.

Cllr Ian Hall said, “This has been one of the most fulfilling roles I have taken on in my time as a county councillor. Over the last couple of years, I feel that the Partnership has now gained real traction and I look forward to see it going from strength to strength as it seeks to eradicate health inequalities in Eastern Devon.”

“Ian has been a passionate advocate for collaboration, always championing the voices of our communities,” said Jeff Chinnock, co-chair and Associate Director of Partnerships at the Royal Devon. “He has left a lasting legacy on the partnership on which we can now build. We owe him a huge debt of gratitude.”

To ensure continuity, Jeff will remain in post until May 2026. In the meantime, OED is delighted to welcome Fiona Carden, CEO of CoLab Exeter, as co-chair.

Fiona brings a wealth of experience in social justice and partnership working, and currently co-chairs the Exeter Partnership, a collaboration of anchor institutions across the city. Her appointment reflects OED’s commitment to shared leadership across statutory and voluntary sectors.

“This is an exciting moment,” said Fiona. “I’m honoured to step into this role and look forward to building on the strong foundations laid by Ian and Jeff. There’s so much potential in OED’s collaborative approach—especially when it comes to tackling inequality and driving real change with our communities.”

Jeff added, “I’m really looking forward to working with Fiona. She brings energy, insight, and deep connections across the voluntary and community sector—and her leadership will be vital as we continue to strengthen our work”

The interim arrangements will remain in place for the next 12 months while OED strengthens its governance, refines decision-making structures, and prepares for the next phase of leadership from May 2026.