Dutt has served for two years as the organisation's legal counsel and head of case management.

"I am so pleased that Nisha is stepping up into this vital role for us," said UKAD chief executive Nicole Sapstead, who is set to join the International Tennis Integrity Agency next year.

"I'm delighted to promote a colleague who consistently demonstrates integrity, dedication and passion in her work.

"Our staff are the beating heart of all we do.

"It's great to be able to offer progression and continuity to talented colleagues such as Nisha.

"Nisha's technical knowledge coupled with her line management and regulatory experience make her a perfect fit for the role."

Dutt said she welcomed the opportunity to take on the role during a busy summer of sport.

The barrister will succeed Matthew Johnson on August 2, as he leaves the organisation after a career in sports regulation, having worked in the sector since 2004.

"I'm so pleased to have the opportunity to lead the great team handling UKAD's legal and regulatory matters," Dutt said.

"I start my new role during an exciting summer of sport - with Euro 2020, Wimbledon and the Tokyo Games, all to be swiftly followed by next year's Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

"What we do is more important than ever, we work for everyone who loves sport and wants to, as we do, keep a level playing field and participation clean."

Nisha was a senior lawyer at the Nursing and Midwifery Council prior to joining UKAD.