Scotland-born Christine Middlemiss, BVMS, MBA, has been appointed the United Kingdom’s chief veterinary officer.
Dr. Middlemiss most recently was chief veterinary officer in New South Wales, Australia, where “she led major improvements to biosecurity across many farming sectors,” according to the U.K.’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
She will take over from Nigel Gibbens, BVetMed, starting March 1, 2018. Dr. Gibbens is retiring after 10 years in the position.
In her new role, Dr. Middlemiss will:
- Serve as Defra and the U.K.’s chief spokesperson on animal health and welfare issues.
- Shape animal health and welfare policy throughout the United Kingdom.
- Lead the response to outbreaks of exotic animal diseases.
- Advise on programs designed to control and eradicate disease.
“The U.K. government has made no secret it wants to cement its place as a world leader on animal welfare as they leave the European Union, and I’m delighted to have an opportunity to play a part in that,” Dr. Middlemiss said.