The head of the busiest hospital trust in Sussex is leaving to take on a prestigious national role.

Duncan Selbie, chief executive of Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust has today been confirmed as the Chief Executive Designate of Public Health England.

The new organisation will be the expert voice for public health when it is established in April 2013.

Mr Selbie will take up his new post by no later than July 1.

He said: ““I am delighted at the opportunity I am being given. “I do not in any way underestimate the challenge this presents. “By getting this right, I believe Public Health England will make a unique and extremely positive contribution to the public’s health alongside local government and the NHS.”

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said: “I am delighted to confirm Duncan Selbie as the Chief Executive Designate of Public Health England.

“This is an incredibly crucial position which carries significant responsibilities and I look forward to him bringing his characteristics of leadership, independence and strategic direction to the role.”