Dr James Calvert has been appointed the new Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Wales.

Dr Calvert brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as Medical Director and Deputy Chief Executive at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board.

A graduate of Oxford University, he holds a PhD in Epidemiology and a Master of Public Health from Harvard University, where he studied as a Fulbright Scholar.

Dr Calvert will also become the National Clinical Director for NHS Performance and Improvement – this fulfils the Welsh Government’s response to a recommendation made by the Ministerial Advisory Group on NHS Performance and Productivity.

Dr Calvert has lived in Gwent for more than 16 years and is well-known for his commitment to improving healthcare delivery and outcomes across Wales. His appointment reflects the Welsh Government’s ongoing dedication to strengthening public health leadership and advancing the health and wellbeing of communities.

His career spans clinical leadership, public health, and national advisory roles, including serving as National Specialty Advisor for Severe Asthma and leading the National Asthma Audit at the Royal College of Physicians.

Professor Isabel Oliver, Wales’ Chief Medical Officer, said: “I welcome Dr Calvert and I am very much looking forward to working with him. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role.

“Dr Calvert will help strengthen medical leadership in Wales and his post will include responsibility for Wales providing clinical leadership to NHS Performance and Improvement and improving our clinical services across the NHS Wales.”

Speaking about his appointment, Dr Calvert said: "I am honoured to take on this role at such a pivotal time for the NHS in Wales. I look forward to working with colleagues across the NHS and government to build on our shared commitment to high-quality, equitable healthcare for all."

Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said: “Dr Calvert’s experience will prove invaluable to the role of Deputy Chief Medical Officer, and he will provide clear clinical leadership from the top in his new role with NHS Performance and Improvement.”

Dr Calvert will assume his new responsibilities from the beginning of August.