Gayle brings deep NHS and commercial experience to the role. He has been at Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust since 2019, first as a Non-Executive Director before becoming Deputy Chair in 2022 and substantive Chair in March 2023, a position he will continue in.

Gayle has extensive knowledge and leadership experience within the health, social care and housing sectors. In addition, to specialised skills as a business consultant, in transformation and improving organisational performance. Lead

Governor at BCHFT, Elsie Gayle, said: ‘Phil really impressed with his enthusiasm for the role, knowledge and experience in mental health and the Black Country community. His approach to building trust and credibility with the governor body and wider staff family at our trust, was particularly noted and will be vital in this interim period.'

Gayle said: ‘I see my primary role supporting the board and governors and helping the trust to provide the best possible care for patients and service users.'

Gayle is a qualified counsellor and has an MSc in Healthcare Policy Management from the University of Birmingham. He has previously held a number of NHS board positions.

The Assembly of Governors have approved the interim appointment from 1 December 2024 to 31 March 2025. A recruitment campaign for a permanent chair will begin early in the New Year.