Sir Terence, who is currently chair of the Health Research Authority, will take up his new role in February, following on from the current chair, Sir Ron Kerr, who is coming to the end of his second and final term.

He said: ‘There are many challenges facing the NHS but also opportunities to make it better for patients, staff and communities.

‘With the 10-Year Health Plan on the horizon, I look forward to having the opportunity to work with the fantastic team at NHS Providers to deliver this change. 

‘By working with partners across health and care, Government and beyond, we can create a "next generation" NHS.'

Chief executive and deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Sir Julian Hartley and Saffron Cordery, said: ‘We are delighted that Terence is joining us to take up this important and challenging role at a critical juncture for our members, patients, and the wider NHS.

‘He brings a wealth of experience as a prominent and highly respected leader and practitioner in health and care which will be invaluable in guiding us and our members at such a time of change and challenge in the health service.

‘In the coming weeks, Terence will help to kickstart the process to recruit our next chief executive and support us in our work to help shape the forthcoming 10-year Health Plan.'