Lawton, who has experience in global business transformation, commercial strategy and customer focused initiatives for Michelin, served on the boards of five prominent housing associations in the Midlands for 16 years, working alongside care professionals, local authorities, healthcare providers and regulators.

He will chair the new Strategic Commissioning and Transformation Committee.

Lawton said: 'I bring with me a broad range of experience, as well as valuable insights that have empowered me to advocate for diversity and inclusion in both executive and non-executive roles and I look forward to supporting the ICB to deliver its outcomes.'

Chair David Pearson added: 'Mike will be a tremendous asset to the ICB, and his extensive commercial experience will add a critical and independent view to our governance and strategic oversight.

'His track record speaks for itself and his values and ambitions to address inequalities across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and deliver better health outcomes for our communities are closely aligned to our own.'