Mr Sodha, who is also director of independent wholesaler Lexon UK, will replace Ian Strachan, who steps down from the chairman role this year having completed his four-year term.

Mr Sodha qualified as a pharmacist in 1981 and has previously worked for Boots. He has been managing director of Knights Pharmacy – which operates over 50 pharmacies across England – since it was founded in 1984.

He was first elected to the NPA board in 2007, representing members in the West Midlands, and was appointed vice chairman in 2014. He also serves as chair of Worcester local pharmaceutical committee.

Mr Sodha said: “It is an honour to be chosen to chair an organisation so central to the history and the future of independent community pharmacy. After four years as vice chair, I look forward to continuing to work hard, with my board colleagues and the NPA staff, in the interests of independent pharmacies and the patients they serve.”

Mr Strachan, whose four-year term as chair ended earlier this month, added: “I am handing the baton over to an experienced colleague, who is passionate about community pharmacy, as are we all on this board. 

“These are challenging times for the sector, but the new chair, myself and the entire board are ready to play our part in helping independents take the journey of change that is necessary.”  

AlChem Pharmacy owner Andrew Lane was elected vice chair, while MediCare Pharmacy superintendent Michael Guerin continues as treasurer, the NPA added.