About BHF
Professor Bryan Williams joins BHF as Professor Sir Nilesh Samani steps down
Professor Bryan Williams is now officially in post as our first Chief Scientific and Medical Officer, following his appointment earlier in the year.
Professor Williams is succeeding Professor Sir Nilesh Samani in leading our research strategy, after Professor Samani stepped down from his role as our Medical Director last week.
Professor Williams is recognised as one of the UK’s most influential scientific and clinical leaders, having led one of the UK’s largest clinical research portfolios at University College London Hospitals. He is also an NHS Consultant Physician.
Professor Williams takes on the role at a time our work has never been more needed, with millions of people affected by heart and circulatory diseases in urgent need or our information, support and breakthroughs.
As our Chief Scientific and Medical Officer, Professor Williams will be responsible for setting our vision and funding strategy for cardiovascular research, enhancing our scientific influence on the national and international stage, and ensuring millions of people with heart and circulatory diseases get the vital care and support they need.
Building on a legacy of lifesaving breakthroughs
Dr Charmaine Griffiths, our Chief Executive, said: “Over the past seven years Nilesh has made a huge impact as our Medical Director, and he leaves a fantastic legacy of innovation and commitment to making progress for patients through research.
“On these foundations, we are delighted to welcome Bryan to lead our medical and scientific endeavours as the UK's leading independent funder of cardiovascular research. I know Bryan's passion for maximising the impact of all our work for patients will be at the heart of our focus over the years ahead, and it is a pleasure to welcome him to our BHF team.”
Professor Samani will continue in his roles as Professor of Cardiology at the University of Leicester and Honorary Consultant Cardiologist at University Hospitals of Leicester.
Professor Samani’s contribution to cardiovascular medicine has been widely recognised, including through his recent award of the prestigious European Society of Cardiology Gold Medal. He was also knighted for his services to medicine and medical research in 2015.