A leading Israel advocacy group has appointed Nick Clegg’s former head of communications to be its new chief executive.

James Sorene will lead Bicom after 15 years in senior positions at the Cabinet Office, Home Office and Department of Health.

Bicom chairman Edward Misrahi said he was “delighted” with Mr Sorene’s appointment.

“He is a communications specialist with years of experience working on high profile and complex issues,” Mr Misrahi said.

“We look forward to working with James to strengthen the organisation and build on its many successes to date.”

Previously head of public affairs at the Israeli embassy in London, Mr Sorene has experience of working on Middle East issues.

He said he would be a “passionate advocate for greater understanding of Israel in the UK”.

Mr Sorene said: “Israel faces serious challenges, many of which are at the centre of foreign and security policy here in the UK.

“Bicom has a crucial role in producing expert analysis and providing a forum for British and Israeli academics and opinion-formers to work together, share ideas, examine solutions and shape the international debate.”

Former Bicom chief executive Dermot Kehoe left the organisation earlier this year.