The Association of Mental Health Providers is proud to officially welcome Dania Hanif as our new Interim Chief Executive Officer as of 1 June.

Dania brings a deep understanding of the sector, having been a dedicated and influential member of the Association’s team since 2016. Over the past nine years, she has played a pivotal role in leading major strategic initiatives, shaping our national policy and communications work, and building strong, trusted relationships across the VCSE mental health and wider health and social care sectors.

Having led the development and implementation of the Association’s strategy in recent years, Dania has helped to steer the organisation with clarity and vision – ensuring our priorities reflect the evolving needs of members, stakeholders, and the communities we support.

Her leadership of the Mental Health Sustainability Programme – a pioneering collaboration between voluntary sector mental health service providers and private sector partners – has been widely recognised as a model of innovation, resilience, and sector-led solutions. Dania has also been instrumental in shaping the Association’s #MHEqualityNow campaign, supporting the development of its Mental Health Data Observatory, and driving forward its wider work on tackling inequalities in mental health provision.

Dania commented:

“I’m grateful to the Board for their confidence in me as I take on the role of Interim CEO. It’s an honour to follow in the footsteps of Kathy Roberts MBE, whose leadership shaped the Association into the respected, values-driven organisation it is today. I’m committed to building on that legacy and working closely with our exceptional team, members, and partners to continue championing the VCSE mental health sector.”

Steve Appleton, Chair of the Board of Trustees, added:

“The Board is delighted to appoint Dania Hanif as Interim CEO. Dania’s deep sector knowledge, strategic insight, and long-standing commitment to the Association make her an outstanding choice to lead the organisation. Her vision for the future of the VCSE mental health sector, coupled with her proven track record of impactful leadership, gives us great confidence as we continue to build on our progress and support our members and communities.”

Dania’s appointment reflects the Board’s commitment to strong, forward-thinking leadership rooted in organisational and sector knowledge, collaboration, and impact. We are excited for this next chapter under her capable and visionary leadership and look forward to continuing our mission to support and advocate for VCSE mental health service providers and the communities they serve.