Alex Barnes

Dr Alex Barnes DL was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant for Oxfordshire in 2026 and is part of the Lieutenancy team focused on Cherwell.

 Alex had a career in NHS management, working at the Radcliffe Infirmary, Regional Health Authority, Horton Hospital and John Radcliffe. He developed the Oxford University Hospital’s corporate plan and planning process and later became Associate Director for Private Patients and Overseas Visitors.  Subsequently he worked as a crown servant in the Northwest where his role included a focus on tri-service cadets.  Alex also served as a logistician in the Army Reserve from 1982 to 2019. He commanded 168 Pioneer Regiment, and mobilised to Iraq in 2005, where he was embedded with the US forces in Baghdad, as an economics specialist to re-develop the Iraqi economy. Achieving the rank of Colonel, he held several staff appointments, including Vice President at the Army Officer Selection Board, and Assistant Commander 101 Logistics Brigade. 

Alex has a first degree in Agriculture and Marketing, an MA, and an MBA. His PhD focused on building resilience and capacity in mothers caring for neurodivergent children.

 Having now retired, his focus is on voluntary activities. He was County President for St John Ambulance in Oxfordshire and is now the St John Priory Lead. He is a Military Member of Southeast RFCA, Chair of The St Martin's Benefice Trust, Honorary Colonel of Oxfordshire Army Cadet Force, and a Magistrate on the Oxford Bench.  Alex has 2 grown-up children and lives in Chadlington with his wife Fiona.