Thompson is currently director of health and care integration (DASS) and interim place lead - a combined role between Rochdale Borough Council and Greater Manchester ICB - that she has held for the past three years.

She has a career spanning 36 years in local government and adult social care, starting as a care assistant at a day centre in Staffordshire. She has held a range of roles, including managing provider services, all-age commissioning, social work and special educational needs.

Thompson said: "I am really looking forward to joining the city council and building on the great work that has been done here and trying to make a big difference.

‘For example, in terms of the latest Care Quality Commission Good rating, my ambition would be to use this foundation as a platform to push to be Outstanding.

'I want to work with partners to deliver services that improve outcomes for residents, reduce health inequalities and allow people to lead as independent lives as possible.'

Councillor Lynn Watkins, cabinet member for adult social care and all-age commissioning at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, added: ‘We are delighted to welcome Nichola to the city council. Her wealth of experience and background - coupled with her passion for the area will make a real difference for the people of Stoke-on-Trent as we look to build on a solid platform for adult social care.'

Thompson replaces Peter Tomlin, who is taking up a similar role at Manchester City Council after more than seven years in Stoke-on-Trent.