Professor Borriello replaces Professor Steve Dean, who is retiring after nine years in the post.

Professor Borriello was previously Chief Executive of the Veterinary Laboratories Agency from 2008 until April, when it merged with the Animal Health agency.

His other previous roles include a Director at the Health Protection Agency, Director of the Public Health Laboratory Service, and founding Director of the Institute of Infections and Immunity at the University of Nottingham.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate is an executive agency of Defra and is responsible for ensuring the safe and effective use of veterinary medicinal products to protect public health, animal health, and the environment.