Fell joined NHS England in 2022. He led the transformation of the NHS Digital Data Security Centre into the NHS England Cyber Operations team, which has strengthened cyber resilience in NHS England and across the wider NHS sector, giving rigour to how it protects its products and services.

Ming Tang, interim chief digital and information officer for NHS England, said: ‘Mike has been fundamental in developing cyber operations into the exemplary team it is today. His knowledge, experience and leadership skills are held in high regard, not only by his peers, but the wider NHS and care sector.

‘During his tenure he's brought together both the enhanced delivery of cyber security to the health and care sector, as well as the protection of NHS England's central systems and data.'

Fell is to take up the post of chief security officer at the Department of Work and Pensions.