Mehta, who brings extensive NHS leadership and governance experience, succeeds Professor Tim Briggs, who stepped down as interim chair at the end of October.

Aruna said: ‘It is an immense privilege to be joining Moorfields and its exceptional staff. Moorfields' reputation for world leading eye care is built on the dedication and expertise of its people, and I am looking forward to supporting the organisation as it continues to innovate, strengthen partnerships and deliver outstanding care for patients.'

Mehta is chair of Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, a role she will continue independently, and has held senior non-executive posts at Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust and Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust.

As well as her NHS experience, Mehta has also spent more than 20 years in international financial services, specialising in governance, operational risk and large-scale organisational change.