Matthew Elliott, former chief executive of Vote Leave, is in advanced negotiations over a senior role at Conservative Campaign Headquarters

Theresa May is planning to bring in the head of the Brexit referendum campaign to overhaul the Tory machine and reassure Leave-supporting MPs and activists.

Matthew Elliott, former chief executive of Vote Leave, is in advanced negotiations over a senior role at Conservative Campaign Headquarters, The Times has learnt.

The appointment, most probably as party vice-chairman, is part of changes called for after the Tories’ shambolic election and conference.

Supporters point to Mr Elliott’s record leading successful campaigns in favour of leaving the EU and, in 2011, against a move to the alternative vote electoral system, as well as his role setting up the Taxpayers’ Alliance, an influential low-tax pressure group.

His recruitment will also be seen as a signal of intent on Brexit after