Maxine Paterson serves as Interim Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. She took the role last April after acting as Deputy Chief Executive since 2023. Paterson joined the service in 2020 as Director of Planning, Performance and Corporate Services. She previously held senior positions in Health and Social Care at the Business Services Organisation.

Paterson holds a degree in Business Management and a postgraduate diploma in Contact Centre Management and Health Commissioning. She describes her leadership style as direct, anchored in values, and focused on systems. She prioritizes visibility, clear expectations, and open discussions on risks and performance. She combines compassion with discipline, especially in emergency care where decisions affect patient safety.

Stepping into the role during ongoing hospital delays and workforce issues shaped her leadership. She stresses providing clarity and steadiness under pressure to build trust. On difficult days, she emphasizes accountability and presence, listening to staff and explaining decisions.

Balancing daily operations with long-term changes requires discipline, Paterson states. Leaders must manage immediate risks while reserving time for future improvements. She advocates for sponsoring women into senior roles and encouraging them before they feel fully prepared.

Paterson leads alongside Emma Wood, Chief Executive of the Welsh Ambulance Service. Both hold degrees and have extensive experience in public sector management. Their comments come ahead of International Women's Day on 8 March 2026.