A new finance boss has taken over the reins at Surrey Downs Clinical Commissioning Group (SDCCG).

Matthew Knight, who has a background in financial work, has been given the role of chief finance officer.  This is his first job within the NHS.

He said: "The NHS is in a critical time financially where now, more than ever, we need to make the best possible use of our resources so we can continue to deliver real improvements in patient care. 

"Working in the NHS is very different to working in a commercial organisation, but I am very much enjoying the new challenge."

Karen Parsons, SDCCG’s chief operating officer, said it has "ambitious plans" for the year ahead, with a range of new projects and initiatives, which will make good budgeting "critical".

Keith Edmunds, SDCCG’s interim chief finance officer, stepped down at the start of the month.