Thomas will lead all global publishing activities for the healthcare knowledge provider. This includes The BMJ journal, as well as nearly 70 speciality journals, the Group’s events, careers, and learning businesses. He will report directly to BMJ Group Board Chair, Peter Vicary-Smith. 

Thomas brings over 20 years of international leadership experience within the Springer Group. He joins from Springer Nature, where he most recently served as Executive Vice President/Managing Director, Books, overseeing the academic books programme. His previous roles include President of Springer Nature Greater China and Managing Director for the iversity e-learning platform. 

Niels also holds a PhD in Political Economy and remains active in the academic community as a visiting professor at a Beijing university, mentoring early-career researchers. 

Peter Vicary-Smith, Group Board Chair, BMJ Group commented: “After a fiercely competitive global search, I am delighted that Niels is joining us in this vital role. As we focus on accelerating growth and increasing the global impact of our research, Niels brings proven leadership and a demonstrable record of delivering sustained commercial growth in strategically important regions such as China. His expertise in digital transformation and AI will be vital to the delivery of our ambitious publishing strategy”.

Niels Peter Thomas said: “I am excited to join BMJ Group at this important time in its international growth journey. I look forward to working with a team of highly respected publishing leaders and collaborating with researchers and partners to ensure sustainable growth that delivers a long-term positive impact globally”. 

Thomas’ role is effective from 15 April 2026.