Allen replaces Fiona Edwards who is stepping down for personal reasons as of today.

‘I look forward to working with colleagues at NHS England North East and Yorkshire and supporting them to develop their new operating model and ways of working,' Allen said.

‘This will be alongside continuing to fulfil my duty as chief executive of the ICB. I am confident with the support of my executive team we will continue to drive forward with our ambitious plans as a strategic commissioner.

‘It's important that we support our NHS partners when they need it, and this is one of those occasions.'

An internal NHSE message shared with HM, said: ‘Sam will remain accountable officer for NHS North East and Cumbria ICB and we will ensure any potential conflicts of interest are managed appropriately.'