NHS CEO appoints new NHS medical director

NHS CEO David Nicholson has named Professor Sir Bruce Keogh as the new NHS medical director.

Sir Bruce, a world renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, will now champion clinical engagement throughout the service and lead the work of the National Clinical Directors, as part of the NHS Leadership Team. He will also act as a deputy chief medical officer.

Nicholson said of the appointment: "I am delighted that Bruce Keogh has accepted the post of NHS Medical Director. This will put the Department's management of the NHS on a stronger clinical footing and support the NHS locally to provide better clinical leadership, helping to support clinicians to drive change at a local level in order to drive improvements for the benefit of patients."

Keogh said: "I'm looking forward to my new role; it's an exciting opportunity to harness the expertise, experience and talents of clinicians working on the front line to guide and implement the continuing transformation the NHS for the benefit of our patients."