The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has appointed an acting Chief Executive. The Director of Health Information at the Authority and Deputy CEO, Professor Jane Grimson, is taking up the role.

Tracey Cooper was CEO of HIQA for the past 8 years. She is taking over as chief executive of Public Health Wales.

Professor Grimson said "I am delighted to have been asked to act as Acting Chief Executive of HIQA and to continue and build on the work of Tracey Cooper over the past eight years".

"HIQA has a very busy and important work programme ahead of us as outlined in our Corporate Plan 2013-2015. Central to the successful delivery of this programme is our fundamental commitment to transparency and independence that puts the people who use our health and social care services at the heart of what we do".

Brian McEnery, Chairperson of HIQA, said "We are fortunate to have someone of the calibre, dedication and professionalism of Jane Grimson to continue leading the Authority and ensuring our independent voice is heard in the interests of people who use our health and social care services".