Former Wagamama chief and NHS Trust board leader join Connexus board
Connexus has appointed two new non-executive directors to its Board and committees.
Thomas Heier and Angela Adimora further strengthen the Board, and will support long-term ambitions to improve homes, services and the customer experience across rural Shropshire and Herefordshire.
Thomas Heier is a former chief executive of restaurant chain Wagamama, where he led the business through a period of significant change and growth. His background includes leading organisational change, shaping culture, improving the customer experience and developing strong leadership across large, complex organisations.
Angela Adimora is an experienced non-executive director and strategic people leader who has worked across healthcare, education, logistics, retail and regulated sectors. She currently serves as a non-executive and People Committee Chair at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. In her role as a Governor at the University of Salford, she sits on the university's governing Council and serves as a member of the Finance and Resources Committee. Angela has also served as an independent non-executive director at the Information Commissioner's Office.
Kate Smith, Chief Executive of Connexus, said: “We are pleased to welcome Thomas and Angela to Connexus. They bring new ideas and have vast experience from across different sectors, including valuable expertise in culture, business transformation, governance and customer experience.
“Their insight will be extremely valuable as we continue to strengthen and transform our services and deliver across the rural communities we serve.”
Thomas Heier said: “Connexus has a clear ambition to improve and evolve over the next few years. Strong leadership, culture and effective engagement all play an important role in successful transformation, and I look forward to working with the leadership at Connexus and contributing my experience in these areas.”
Angela Adimora said: “I’m delighted to be joining the Connexus Board. The organisation has an important role to play in the future of our rural communities, and I’m keen to bring my experience to the organisation as it continues to improve homes, services and the customer experience.”
Thomas and Angela both join the organisation’s main Board. From 1 January 2027, Angela will chair Connexus’ People Committee, while Thomas will chair the Customer Committee.
Kate Smith continued: "I'd also like to thank Nicola de Iongh and Simon Ewins who leave the Board in December after completing six-year terms. They have made significant contributions to the governance of Connexus, and we would like to thank them both for their commitment over the years."