Porter worked at Luton Council in a series of director roles for 11 years, before being appointed chief executive in 2019, where he drove the town-wide vision of Luton 2040. 

He has been an active member of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes ICB since July 2022, where he has contributed to NHS service planning and resource allocation.

Clare Panniker, regional director for NHS England in the East of England, said: 'Robin brings a wealth of experience from local government, providing strong leadership and dedication to improving our services, which will benefit both the ICB and the wider region in delivering even better care for patients.'

Felicity Cox, chief executive of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes ICB, added: 'It has been a pleasure to work with Robin as a partner over the past three years and I have witnessed firsthand his dedication to collaboration and innovation in health and social care. 

'He has a deep commitment to the people and communities we serve and will bring a fresh perspective to support the integration of our public services locally – particularly as we work to deliver on Government's 10-Year Plan for Health.'

Porter said: 'Our area is growing by two and a half times the national average and there are significant health inequalities within our communities. If we're to deliver on Government's 10-Year Plan and see a real shift in the care we deliver – as outlined by Lord Darzi, then we need to innovate and integrate, two things I'm looking forward to bringing to the table.

'We must rise to the challenge, and I look forward to continuing to work with my friends, colleagues and partners to deliver for local people in the place I live in and care so much about.'

Porter will take over from Manjeet Gill, who has led the ICB as acting chair since January.