When Will Windsor joined The Association for Perioperative Practice (AfPP) as a student in 2006, he had no idea it would one day lead him to become a Trustee, nor that it would change his life, and the lives of others, in such a meaningful way.
Now Deputy Head of Nursing at Swansea Bay University Health Board, Will oversees theatre, pre-assessment, and day surgery services across a workforce of more than 514. His journey, however, began much more modestly, as a Healthcare Assistant in theatres at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow in 1999. It was here that his passion for surgical healthcare and the role of the Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) took hold.
A career built on compassion, ambition and learning
Will’s career spans over two decades and includes senior leadership roles in some of the UK’s most respected healthcare institutions. From his time at St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington, where he led a team contributing to nationally published swab safety research, to becoming the first ODP Matron at University Hospitals Dorset NHS Trust, Will’s focus has always been on improving surgical care and uplifting others.
More recently, he helped develop a new surgical hub at Llantrisant Health Park; a state-of-the-art facility with 12 operating theatres focusing on high-volume day surgery and arthroplasty, with a strong emphasis on staff well-being and standardised, high-quality care.
Throughout it all, one constant has remained: AfPP.
“AfPP ignited my passion for my role and gave me the drive to improve, learn and evolve, and to share that learning,” says Will. “It gave me the confidence to speak up and speak out, even as someone with a stammer.”
Representing the profession, and the community
Will became an elected Trustee of AfPP in January 2025. For him, it was both a professional and personal decision.
“I felt there wasn’t enough representation for the LGBTQI+ community,” he explains. “I wanted to help change that.”
Since joining the Board, Will has gone on to lead AfPP’s Inclusivity and Diversity Group, raising awareness and giving members a platform to share their stories, some for the first time.
“People have come to me and said they feel more accepted, more hopeful for the future. That’s powerful,” says Will. “Being visible in this role is important.”
Will’s ambitions go beyond representation. Will is committed to influencing healthcare on a national level, using AfPP’s standards, guidance, and learning resources to substantiate improvements in his own organisation, and inspire others to do the same.
“When you join the NHS, you accept that it’s a career of continuous learning,” he says. “AfPP facilitates that. It gives you the voice, the credibility, and the support to drive change.”
The role of a Trustee: collaborative, strategic, rewarding
The AfPP Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of the organisation. Trustees help lead strategic decision-making, uphold the values of the Charity, and champion perioperative excellence at national and regional levels.
All Trustees attend quarterly Board meetings at AfPP’s Harrogate HQ, contribute to committees, and maintain regular communication with AfPP HQ and fellow Trustees. But as Will says, it’s not just about governance, it’s about community.
“It’s a collaborative environment. The support from the HQ team and the other Trustees is incredible,” he says. “You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to care and be willing to get involved.”
Whether elected by members, nominated by two AfPP members, or appointed based on their professional expertise, all Trustees bring something different to the table. This applies equally to non-elected Trustees who are specifically appointed for their skills in key areas.
Right now, AfPP is particularly seeking individuals with strengths in commercial knowledge, legal affairs, governance, HR, and risk management for non-elected Trustee roles. However, passion and purpose are just as valuable, and every Trustee’s unique perspective plays a vital role in supporting the organisation’s mission.
A journey of growth, and a message for others
Will credits AfPP with helping him grow not just as an Operating Department Practitioner, but as a person.
“Speaking in front of groups used to be terrifying. Now, thanks to AfPP, I do it with confidence. The networking opportunities have been mind-blowing, and my career path, from HCA to Deputy Head of Nursing, is proof of what’s possible.”
He still finds time to enjoy life outside work too, spending time with friends, enjoying a cocktail or a walk on the beach, and indulging in a bit of retail therapy (he’s a big Vivienne Westwood fan and a familiar face at the Cardiff store!).
His advice for anyone considering a Trustee role?
“Just do it! If you care about the future of our profession and want to make a difference, this is one of the most rewarding things you can do.”
Join the AfPP Board of Trustees
We are currently seeking both elected Trustees (nominated by two AfPP members) and non-elected Trustees appointed for their specific skills. It’s your chance to help shape the future of perioperative practice and grow personally and professionally along the way.
Whether you’re just starting your career or bringing decades of experience, we want to hear from you.
Find out more and apply today: www.afpp.org.uk/trustee-vacancies
Picture shows Will.