Prof Denison, currently dean of Postgraduate Education at NHS Education for Scotland, will join the regulator in March next year. He has worked as a consultant radiologist in Aberdeen since 2006 and has been a GMC education associate for eight years.

He was previously a clinical academic for 13 years, during which he became undergraduate medicine degree programme lead. He is a Principal Fellow of Advance Higher Education – a charity that promotes higher education – and a Fellow of the UK Academy of Medical Educators.

Prof Denison has also led on academic affairs, curriculum approvals liaison and several clinical specialties for the Conference of Postgraduate Medical Deans.

In his new role, he will support the GMC's medical director, Professor Pushpinder Mangat, working with key organisations in medical education and training across the UK. He will also provide clinical advice to help inform the GMC's policies and projects.

He replaces Professor Sue Carr, who is retiring after six years in the role.

Prof Denison said: ‘Having worked across systems and organisations throughout my career, I look forward to helping ensure we have the medical and associate workforce to meet the evolving health needs of our diverse populations across all four UK nations.'

Prof Mangat added: ‘Professor Denison will bring a wealth of knowledge, skills and experience to the GMC. We are delighted he is joining us in what is a key role, and at a crucial time for the future of medical education and training.'