As non-executive directors (NEDs), they will provide independent advice on business decisions and developments. They bring a wealth of experience to BMJ to support its growth in research and digital health offerings, says the organisation.
Roger Horton, Chair of BMJ, said: “I am delighted to welcome these outstanding individuals to the BMJ Board. They join us at an exciting and important time as we launch a new strategy and transform the way we work. Each brings a wealth of experience from clinical knowledge with commercial understanding and combines this with extensive experience in medical leadership.”
Chris Jones, BMJ Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am really pleased to welcome two new NEDs to the Board. Alongside our existing Board members, they bring a great perspective and breadth of experience to help guide and shape the implementation of our new global publishing and digital strategy. It will be a privilege to have their input, and I look forward to working alongside them.”
The new appointees took up their Board positions on 1 December 2021, replacing Dr Hamish Meldrum and Dr Kiran Patel, who served for nearly 10 years each.
About the appointees
Professor Wasim Hanif is an eminent authority on diabetes, obesity, and ethnic health, says the BMJ. As well as holding several clinical and academic posts, he is Trustee of Diabetes UK and the South Asian Health Foundation (SAHF) and was instrumental in setting up UKADS (the United Kingdom Asian Diabetes Study).
As a leading figure in his specialty, Professor Hanif advises national bodies and professional groups including the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
He is also involved in the International Diabetes Federation, World Health Organisation, and Global Policy Forum on Diabetes, and has received the South Asian Health Foundation UK Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dr Hemal Desai is Global Director of Clinical Services for Aetna International, where he leads a global medical team to ensure the highest standards of care for members in areas such as emergency assistance, telemedicine, and primary healthcare.
Dr Desai has significant experience in healthcare services transactions in the UK and the Middle East, and has held senior roles in both the public and private sector, including Medical Director for Bupa Thailand, clinical adviser to the National Clinical Director for Pathology, and clinical lead for NHS Midlands and East.
He also still practices as a general practitioner in Urgent Care in London and is a specialist in family medicine.
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