Jon Thompson has been crowned as the new head of the government finance profession.

On 1 April, he will replace Dame Mary Keegan who is retiring after four years at HM Revenue & Customs.

Thompson will combine this post with his current role as director general for corporate services at the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

The Treasury's permanent secretary Nick Macpherson said: 'I am incredibly pleased that Jon Thompson is taking on this important role. He has transformed financial management in his department, and the profession will benefit from his wealth of private and public sector experience and expertise. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Dame Mary Keegan for her huge contribution to the Treasury and to the profession.'

Thompson said: 'I am delighted to be taking on this role at such a pivotal time in central government. It is my ambition that we build on the excellence and expertise that already exists to create a truly world-class finance profession across government.'

Profile: Jon Thompson, FD of the Department for Children, Schools and Families