The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has appointed David Holdsworth as its new chief executive.
Before joining APHA, Mr Holdsworth was the deputy chief executive of the UK Intellectual Property Office. He has also had senior roles at the Charity Commission, the Home Office and spent five years in the private sector.
He is a fellow of the Institute of Directors and has been chairman of the Liverpool city region branch.
Mr Holdsworth said: “I feel very privileged to have joined APHA at this important time. The agency plays a vital role in safeguarding animal and plant health for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy.
“I am hugely looking forward to working with APHA’s world class experts, as well as our stakeholders and partners to continue delivering excellent services for our customers and the UK.