Dr Adeyemo, who replaces Ifti Majid who stepped down in April, has served on the Mental Health Network advisory board as an NHS chief executive representative for the past two years.

She came to work for the NHS in 1997 from Nigeria, where she first practiced medicine, and has a background in psychiatry for old age and adults.

Rebecca Gray, director of the Mental Health Network, said: ‘Buki has already made a great contribution to the direction of the network as a representative member on our board and we are delighted that she is now stepping up to take over the role as chair, and l look forward to working with her to take the network forward.

‘We would also like to thank our outgoing chair, Ifti Majid, who led the board since 2019 and will be missed.'

Dr Adeyemo said: ‘I really value the work of the network and the support it gives to its members across the NHS, particularly during this time of change.

‘I'm excited to step up into the chair role and have the opportunity to make the most of the unique position the network holds to influence policy, support shared learning and work with members to improve what we are able to deliver to people who experience mental illness and our communities.'

The Mental Health Network represents providers of NHS mental healthcare and support to people with Learning Disabilities and Autism, from across the statutory, independent and third sectors. The network works with government, regulators, opinion formers, media and the wider health system to promote excellence in mental health services and influence health policy.