GDC President Hew Mathewson said: “Ian’s appointment is an important one for the GDC. The General Dental Council is committed to providing regulation which is consistent across the UK whilst relevant to the way in which healthcare is delivered in different countries, systems and contexts.

“Ian joins us at an important time. His work will aim to further build and maintain effective GDC engagement in Scotland so that we can relate better – and respond better – to Scottish-based patients and registered dental professionals working in Scotland.”

Ian has previously held various roles at BT, where he has worked since 1990, and was most recently Partnership Director. Ian is also a member of the General Teaching Council, Scotland and graduated from the University of Edinburgh with an MA in Geography. Ian was appointed MBE in January 2005 for services to education in Scotland.

Commenting on his appointment Ian Jackson said: “I am very pleased to have the opportunity to make a real impact on the GDC’s presence in Scotland by leading the development of the Council’s activities in the country. I look forward to working with the many Scotland-based patients and professionals as well as the Scottish Parliament, other regulators and agencies in the country.”