Healthcare leader

John Rooke will lead the organisation, which will take over healthcare commissioning responsibilities from NHS Bedfordshire.

He said: “I am delighted to be appointed to work for this ambitious clinical commissioning group.

“I look forward to working in partnership with clinicians, local authorities and the general public to advance the healthcare services we offer in Bedfordshire.”

The appointment was made following a full interview panel process, which included representatives from NHS Bedfordshire, both local authorities and the group’s newly-elected chair, Dr Paul Hassan.

John was previously the chief executive of Horizon Health Commissioning in north Bedfordshire.

Dr Hassan said: “I am very pleased with the appointment. John has extensive experience of the local health economy and partnership working and his appointment is a key step in the process of creating a top class commissioning organisation.”