The controversy-plagued Hawkes Bay District Health Board has appointed a new chief executive.

Kevin Snee, chief executive of NHS Devon in Britain, will fill the position vacated by Chris Clarke in February.

Mr Clarke had hinted he was forced to leave, after Health Minister Tony Ryall reinstated the DHB's board members, who had been sacked by David Cunliffe when he was minister. Dr Snee is due to start work in October.