Dr Damien Marmion has been named as our new Chair of Trustees

Dr Damien Marmion has been appointed as Bowel Cancer UK Chair of Trustees. He takes over from Richard Anderson who stepped down from the role in March 2025 after 12 years of service on the Board as Trustee and Chair. 

Richard, with over 30 years' senior experience in healthcare and life science communications, has a long commitment to the voluntary sector. He is passionate about driving innovation for social good, and is Chair of Independent Age. 

Richard joined the board as Trustee in 2013 and took over as Chair of Trustees in 2022. He led the charity safely out of the pandemic, determined to see it increase its reach and impact for more people affected by bowel cancer. He steered the development of Bowel Cancer UK’s current strategy, On a Mission, which has early diagnosis at its heart. He brought inspirational leadership to the role, and his commitment to the charity’s mission shines through in his years of service to the charity. 

Reflecting on his time as Chair of Bowel Cancer UK, Richard said “The charity has made significant advances over the last three years, helping more people, funding additional research and ensuring that its voice is heard by government and the NHS on behalf of everyone affected by bowel cancer.  None of it would have been possible without the dedication of the patients and their families who support us, our partners, and our wonderful staff, volunteers and my fellow Trustees. 

“I’m delighted to hand over to Damien who will be an outstanding Chair, and I am confident that the charity will continue to thrive under his leadership. I look forward to seeing its continued growth, so that all those affected by bowel cancer receive the support they need.” 

Damien is an experienced healthcare leader, with a passion for digital technology. He qualified as a doctor in the NHS before moving to Bupa where he stayed for 21 years, taking on roles in Hong Kong and India before becoming CEO of Bupa Insurance in the UK. Damien moved to AXA Global Health as CEO, before setting up his own advisory consultancy. Damien also holds several Non-Executive Director roles where he uses his skills and experience to transform health outcomes. 

Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive of Bowel Cancer UK, said: " Under Richard’s leadership, we’ve invested in an ambitious strategy, including a refocussed research programme, our first behaviour change campaign and a targeted early diagnosis programme, securing innovative partnerships and preparing the charity for its next phase of growth. I'd like to thank Richard for the inspiration, challenge and wise counsel he’s always given so generously. 

"I'm thrilled to welcome Damien as our new Chair. With more than 30 years’ experience in healthcare, and most notably digital health, we know Damien will be tireless in his efforts to drive change for everyone living with and affected by bowel cancer. He brings with him a personal connection to our cause and strong values that align with our purpose. We warmly welcome Damien to Bowel Cancer UK and very much look forward to working with him”. 

Damien Marmion said: "I’m proud to step into the role of Chair of Trustees at Bowel Cancer UK. Bowel cancer runs in my family, so I’ve seen first-hand the devastating consequences it can have.  

Things feel particularly urgent right now. With a tough external environment, more people being diagnosed at a younger age, changes to the health system, and critical work towards a national cancer plan, people with bowel cancer need us more than ever.  

I’m incredibly proud to join the team at Bowel Cancer UK. I’m looking forward to working alongside staff, my fellow Trustees, volunteers, supporters and the inspirational bowel cancer community to help save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer.” 

Damien was appointed after an external recruitment process. All Trustee roles at Bowel Cancer UK are unremunerated. 

• Find out more about our trustees
• Read our strategy 'On a mission'
• Learn the symptoms of bowel cancer