The Legal Services Commission (LSC) has recruited its new chief executive from the UK Border Agency.

Matthew Coats, currently interim head of border force, will take up his new position on 27 February. The role will then change to chief executive of the Legal Aid Agency, within the Ministry of Justice, when the commission is abolished in April 2013.

Coats will lead the LSC during a period of considerable change as it implements the government’s legal aid cuts and moves to an executive agency.

He said: ‘I am delighted to be given this opportunity at such an important time for the provision of legal aid.

‘I am really looking forward to working with government and legal service providers to ensure that people who need legal help and advice, but can’t afford it, receive the best service possible through a time of great change for both the Legal Services Commission and the legal industry.’

Coats has been at the border agency since 2006 and has led the asylum and immigration system. Previously he worked at the Department of Health and as a hospital manager.

He replaces outgoing chief executive Carolyn Downs, who left in November to become chief executive of the Local Government Association.

Law Society chief executive Desmond Hudson said: 'We welcome Mr Coats to the new role at what is a challenging time for the solicitors’ profession and the LSC. The last year has seen the Society, in representing the concerns of its members, engage effectively with the LSC and we are confident that will continue from the outset of his tenure.

'Central to that constructive working is how best to serve the interests of the clients we are all seeking to help gain access to justice.

'We look forward to meeting with Mr Coats when he takes up the role in February.'

Owen Mapley, currently the interim chief executive of the LSC, will return to his position as director of finance and corporate services when Coats arrives.