“This is a welcome appointment as not only does Clarke have an intimate knowledge of the industry, being a resident of West Cumbria means he knows first hand how important it is to the region’s economy. Added to that is his reputation for being able to work with stakeholders in a spirit of consultation and co-operation.

“Given that our members’ livelihoods are tied up in the future of decommissioning, Prospect is a key stakeholder in the clean-up agenda and we will be looking to develop and maintain a close working relationship, with full and open consultation, at every step of the way.”

Clarke takes up his new post on April 2 following the departure of Tony Fountain in December.  He joined the NDA in 2008 following more than 25 years of working in the nuclear industry. A chartered engineer and fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers (FIChemE), his early career involved a range of roles in the design, development, commissioning and operation of nuclear fuel processing plants.

He has been a member of the Sellafield Ltd executive team for eight years, and spent five years as head of environmental, health, safety and quality followed by three years as director of production where he was accountable for the majority of operational activities at Sellafield.