The chief executive of NHS Kingston has taken a second job at Kingston Council.

David Smith has been seconded to director of health and adult services, replacing temporary director Ian Davey.

He will continue as chief executive of NHS Kingston.

NHS Kingston will cease to exist in April 2013 with some powers for public health handed over to the council.

The 27 Kingston GP practices are establishing a shadow organisation to take over the main job of commissioning NHS services.

Mr Smith earned a salary of £135,000 to £140,000 according to NHS Kingston’s accounts for 2009-10.

A spokesman for Kingston Council could not confirm his new salary but said costs would be shared between the two organisations.

Kingston Council believes it can make savings of £80,000 a year by appointing Mr Smith.