Helen Nellis has been appointed Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for the County of Bedfordshire.
She succeeds Sir Samuel Whitbread KCVO who held the position for more than twenty years.
Mrs Nellis said: "I am greatly looking forward to working with my dedicated colleagues in the Lieutenancy to support the many generous-hearted people across all parts of our County who actively participate in our communities making them notable for their vibrancy, ambition and compassion.
"We are fortunate in Bedfordshire to have so many businesses, voluntary and state sector organisations working in harmony for our common good. It will be an honour for me to serve Bedfordshire in my new role.
I would also like to pay tribute to the outstanding service of Sir Samuel Whitbread who has fulfilled the role of Lord Lieutenant with distinction and integrity and I wish him and Lady Whitbread good health and happiness on his retirement."
An international senior executive search professional with a legal and academic background, Helen Nellis has extensive experience of working with the public, charity and private sectors. She has held several public appointments throughout Bedfordshire including Chairman of Bedfordshire Health Authority, Chairman of Bedford Hospitals NHS Trust, Chairman Luton Health Action Zone and Vice-Chairman of the University of Bedfordshire.
She has lived in Bedfordshire for almost thirty years and is married to Professor Joe Nellis of Cranfield University. They have three children.
