The joint role combines the duties of Barnsley Council's director of adult social care with the strategic responsibilities of the ICB's executive place director for Barnsley.

Calvin-Thomas has served as chief executive of the Manchester and Trafford Local Care Organisation since 2017, following her role as director of strategy. She has overseen the development and delivery of one of the largest integrated community health and social care organisations.

In addition, Calvin-Thomas has been a key member of Manchester City Council's senior leadership team, leading the implementation of neighbourhood-based models to help people remain safe, supported and independent at home whenever possible.

Her previous roles include director of the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership and executive director of planning and performance at Pennine Care NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, where she built lasting partnerships across the sector.

Calvin-Thomas said: 'I'm delighted to be joining you all soon in this vitally important joint role – making a tangible difference to the lives of our residents and building on the fantastic work already under way.'

In her new role she will oversee Barnsley's Adult Social Care services and manage NHS South Yorkshire's resources within Barnsley.

Sarah Norman, chief executive of Barnsley Council, said: ‘Katy's passion for transforming services to improve lives aligns perfectly with our mission, and I am confident she will help drive our vision for a healthier, more inclusive Barnsley.'

Gavin Boyle, chief executive of NHS South Yorkshire, added: ‘This is a unique role combining health and adult social care and is integral to improving both population health and reducing health inequalities.'