Prof Mirza brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in health and education, championing equity, inclusion, and social justice.

She has experience of working at board level nationally and internationally and in the NHS, where she has been deputy chair, maternity safety champion and senior independent director in NHS non-executive director roles in the Bradford District and Craven Place system.

Prof Nadira Mirza is also professor of lifelong learning and social mobility at Leeds Trinity University, and she works with Born in Bradford. She was previously the dean of lifelong education and development at the University of Bradford and most recently was deputy chair for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

In her role at the ICB, Prof Mirza will focus on amplifying the voices of local people and embedding future generations' needs into strategic decisions.

Prof Mirza said: ‘Ensuring that our communities have equitable access to healthcare and the opportunity to shape the services they need is a mission I am deeply passionate about.

‘I look forward to working with colleagues, local people, and partners to create a healthier, more inclusive future for West Yorkshire.'

Cathy Elliott, chair of West Yorkshire ICB, added: ‘Professor Mirza's lifelong dedication to addressing inequalities and extensive experience in leadership roles at board level in the NHS together make her a perfect fit for this role.

‘Her expertise will be invaluable as we continue to put people and future generations at the heart of our decisions.'