Today (19 July), Environment Secretary George Eustice has confirmed the appointment of Alan Lovell as the new Chair of the Environment Agency (EA).
The EA’s current chair, Emma Howard Boyd CBE, will complete her second term in the role in September, before Lovell joins the organisation on 26 September.
The announcement follows the publication of a joint report from the EFRA and EAC on Lovell’s suitability for the role, which stated the bodies are ‘content’ with Lovell’s appointment, based on his professional competence and personal independence.
Upon commencement of his chairmanship, Lovell will be leaving his roles as Chairman of the Interverse Group Ltd, Senior Independent Director of SIG plc, and Chair of Safestyle UK plc.
Prior to this, he has acted as Chief Executive of a number of private companies including Infinis, Costain, and Dunlop Slazenger, before chairing the Consumer Council for Water, the University of Winchester and the Mary Rose Trust.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said: “Alan will bring a wide range of experience, enthusiasm and leadership to the role and I am delighted he will be the next Chair of the Environment Agency. His knowledge and experience will be a real asset as we work together to improve and enhance the natural environment.”
Welcoming his appointment, Alan Lovell said: “It is a great honour to be appointed Chair of the Environment Agency. This is a vital organisation, full of excellent committed people striving to do their best for the nation’s flood defences, for the environment as a whole, and in the battle against climate change. It will be a privilege to join them and to try to make a difference.”
Emma Howard Boyd, current Chair of the Environment Agency, added: “The Environment Agency is a fantastic organisation of committed public servants who save lives, protect nature and support business. It’s been a privilege to be Chair.
“I am delighted to welcome Alan as the next Chair of the Environment Agency. He brings a wealth of experience from his time in business and his time as Chair of the Consumer Council for Water.”
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