Celia Falzon has been appointed designate Chief Executive Officer at Mater Dei Hospital, the government announced.

At present, Falzon is CEO of the Pharmacy of Your Choice Scheme. She has a Masters in business administration, specialising in strategic planning.

Falzon has been involved in major projects in connection with public health since 2014, including the expansion of the accident and emergency unit and initiatives on waiting lists.

The present CEO, Ivan Falzon, will be leaving the post in February after six years.

Health Minister Chris Fearne thanked both for the contribution to the health sector.