The director of digital infrastructure at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), James Heath, has been appointed chief executive officer of the National Infrastructure Commission.
Mr Heath is also a former director of policy at the BBC and led DCMS through the Future Telecoms Infrastructure Review and Telecoms Supply Chain Review.
James Heath
He had overall responsibility for broadband, mobile and telecoms security policy, and the Government's 5G Trials & Testbed Programme.
Mr Heath said: 'Infrastructure has shot to the top of the political agenda and this role offers an unparalleled opportunity to advise government on how to ensure future investment will deliver lasting benefits to communities across the UK.
'I will be joining a talented team and supporting a group of Commissioners whose expertise offers huge value in shaping a strategic approach to infrastructure policy.'
Sir John Armitt, chair of the National Infrastructure Commission, said Mr Heath was 'well-equipped' to help analyse the UK's future infrastructure needs.
The appointment was made by Her Majesty’s Treasury, in consultation with Sir John, following an open selection process.
Mr Heath will begin work at the Commission later in the spring.
He succeeds Phil Graham, who in January moved to the Greater London Authority as executive director for good growth.
The new Chief Executive will lead the Commission’s secretariat of around 40 staff at a pivotal time for the organisation.
The Government is due to publish its National Infrastructure Strategy, as in response to the Commission’s landmark National Infrastructure Assessment published in July 2018.
And following the Government's planned HS2 reforms, he has asked the Commission to conduct an assessment to inform a new integrated rail plan for the North and Midlands.
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