Victor Adebowale

Victor Olufemi Adebowale was born on July 21, 1962. He entered public life with a focus on local authority estate management and later joined the housing association sector, working with organizations such as Patchwork Community Housing Association and serving as Regional Director of Ujima Housing Association. His early career also included directorial roles at the Alcohol Recovery Project and Chief Executive of the youth homelessness charity Centrepoint. These foundational experiences laid the groundwork for his extensive contributions to social welfare and public policy.

In 2001, Victor Adebowale became the Chief Executive of Turning Point, a social enterprise specializing in health and social care for individuals with complex needs, including substance misuse, mental health issues, and learning disabilities. He held this position until 2019. During his tenure, Turning Point expanded its direct service provision and actively engaged in national campaigns to advocate for people requiring social care. His leadership was recognized in 2000 when he was awarded a CBE for his services to unemployed and homeless people. In the same year, he was appointed a crossbench peer, becoming Baron Adebowale of Thornes in the County of West Yorkshire, reflecting his commitment to public service and policy formulation.

Following his departure from Turning Point, Victor Adebowale transitioned to the role of Chair of the NHS Confederation in April 2020. He has held numerous non-executive directorships for organizations like the Co-Operative Group, Collaborate CIC, Nuffield Health, Visionable, and Leadership in Mind. He also serves as the Chair of Social Enterprise UK and has a significant academic presence as a visiting Professor and Chancellor at the University of Lincoln. His work has involved chairing commissions on critical issues such as policing, employment, mental health, housing, and fairness for various governmental and public bodies, further cementing his influence in shaping key policy areas.