British Institute of Radiology Appoints Claire Angus as chief executive

Claire has succeeded previous chief executive Sara Purdy, bringing her extensive experience with professional medical societies to the role

Published: 17 September 2025 People

The Society of Radiographers has welcomed the announcement that the British Institute of Radiology (BIR) has appointed its latest chief executive.

Claire Angus took on the role on 1 September, succeeding Sara Purdy – who held the position for the prior three years.

Joining the BIR from the Royal College of Podiatry (RCPod), Claire brings with her experience as director of membership and events, where she led strategic planning, member engagement, and the delivery of scientific events.

‘Unique value at the heart of diagnostic imaging’

Richard Evans, CEO of the SoR, said: “The British Institute of Radiology is a very long-standing partner of the SoR. In fact, the SoR office was initially hosted by the BIR after our foundation in 1920. The multidisciplinary membership of the BIR gives it a unique value at the heart of diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy and it is great to welcome Claire Angus as the new CEO. I look forward to meeting Claire soon and to working together in future.”

In addition to her role at RCPod, Claire volunteers as a trustee and treasurer for a local women’s refuge and as a school governor.

BIR president Dr Nick Screaton said: “Claire has extensive skills in governance, communication, and stakeholder management, along with a commitment to fostering scientific collaboration, engaging members, and advocating for research. We are confident that she is well placed to lead the BIR team in our mission to deliver our strategy to improve medicine, health and patient care through the science and practice of imaging and radiation oncology. I am delighted to welcome her as Chief Executive.

“On behalf of the BIR Council, I thank Sara for her hard work, strategic vision and innovation over the last three years – including the launch of the BJR|Artificial Intelligence journal, and wish her well for the future.”

‘Proud legacy’

Claire said: “I am truly honoured to take up the role of Chief Executive at the British Institute of Radiology. The BIR has a long and respected history and I am delighted to join an organisation so deeply committed to supporting professionals across the full spectrum of radiology and oncology.

“My focus will be on building on the Institute’s proud legacy, while also ensuring we are forward-thinking and responsive to the needs of our community. I look forward to listening, learning, and working collaboratively with the exceptional team at BIR, and with all those who share in our mission to improve patient care through excellence in radiological science and practice.”

Find out more about the British Institute of Radiology online here.

(Image: Claire Angus, via the BIR)