Aruna Mehta appointed as interim Chair

Aruna Mehta has become interim Chair of the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. She will hold the role until the merger by acquisition with North London NHS Foundation Trust is enacted next year.

Aruna brings a wealth of boardroom experience both as an executive and non-executive, with particular expertise in governance. She has had a 25-year career in banking and finance, with responsibility for global risk and control and a decade of experience as a non-executive director (NED) working in the health, housing, and education sectors. She continues to serve as Chair of Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, a role she took up in 2024. 

Aruna takes over from John Lawlor, who left the Trust after three and a half years as chair to take up a role as chair of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust. 

“The opportunity to lead the Tavistock and Portman in its journey toward merger by acquisition is both exciting and challenging. I look forward to working closely with staff, students, patients and with North London NHS Foundation Trust to ensure a smooth path and transition,” said Aruna.