The Department of Health has hired Melinda Johnson to be its new commercial director.

Johnson joins from the same position at the Department of Transport, where she worked for five years. Prior to this, she worked in the Department of Education as deputy director – commercial services.

She has already begun the new position, according to HSJ, and replaces Pat Mills who resigned in January.

Alan Hoskins, chairman of the Health Care Supply Association, which represents NHS procurement staff, welcomed the appointment.

“Melinda is a distinguished procurement professional who is greatly respected. I wish her well in her role and look forward to working with her,” he said.