Surrey County Council appoints new Director of Public Health  

Surrey County Council (SCC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Jack Bedeman as its new Director of Public Health, joining the organisation in the New Year. 

Jack brings extensive experience and expertise in public health. He joins Surrey from the London Borough of Croydon, where he currently serves as Acting Deputy Director of Public Health. Prior to this, Jack spent seven years as a Consultant in Public Health at Croydon and nearly five years as a Public Health Registrar at the London, Kent, Surrey and Sussex School of Public Health, during which time he held roles at the Department of Health, University College London, and Public Health England. 

In his new role, Jack will lead SCC’s ambitious programme to improve health and wellbeing for residents, reduce inequalities so that no one is left behind, and protect communities from health hazards. Reporting to Claire Edgar, Director of Adults, Wellbeing and Health Partnerships, Jack will also act as the principal advisor on all health matters to elected members, officers, and SCC partners. 

Jack is a Member of the Faculty of Public Health and an Associate Member of the Association of Directors of Public Health. His appointment strengthens SCC’s senior leadership team and provides stability during Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) implementation. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Jack is an award-winning, published illustrator who often uses his creative skills to raise awareness of public health issues. 

Terence Herbert, Chief Executive of Surrey County Council, said: “We are proud to welcome Dr Jack Bedeman to Surrey County Council. Building on the strong foundations of our Public Health team, Jack’s leadership will ensure we continue to deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities across our communities. His experience and passion for prevention will be invaluable as we work together to create a healthier, more resilient Surrey.” 

Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council and Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board, said: “Jack’s appointment reflects our commitment to maintaining and building on the success of Surrey’s Public Health work. His expertise will help us strengthen partnerships with the NHS, voluntary sector, and local communities, ensuring that everyone in Surrey has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life. We look forward to working with him to drive forward our shared vision for a healthy county.” 

Dr Jack Bedeman said: “As a Surrey resident I am delighted to have been appointed to a role whose challenges combine such complex and differing communities ranging from our urban centres and rural countryside. I’m looking forward to strengthening relationships and collaboration with the NHS and community sector, and leading a shift towards prevention and building on the strengths of our communities, using data and embracing innovation to bring about real improvements.”