Professor Benger joined NICE in January 2023 as chief medical officer and has since held the roles of interim director of the Centre for Guidelines and deputy chief executive. He brings extensive health policy experience from senior national roles, including interim chief clinical information officer at NHS England and chief medical officer of NHS Digital.

As well as his leadership work, Prof Benger continues to practice as a consultant in emergency medicine at the Bristol Royal Infirmary and works shifts with the Great Western Air Ambulance, a charity he helped to establish.

Prof Benger said: ‘I'm excited about the significant expansion of NICE's role outlined in the Government's 10-Year Health Plan. I've seen first hand, both as a doctor in emergency medicine and in my work across the wider NHS, how the right guidance at the right time can transform patient care. My priority is to build on NICE's reputation for independence, transparency and rigour, respond to current system challenges and ensure we continue to support the delivery of excellence in healthcare.'

Dr Samantha Roberts, outgoing chief executive at NICE, said: ‘I'm delighted that Jonathan has been appointed to lead NICE into its next chapter. His clinical expertise, national policy experience and deep understanding of the challenges facing the NHS make him the ideal person for this role.'