Welsh environmental regulator Natural Resources Wales has announced that Clare Pillman will take over as its next Chief Executive in February.

She will take over the role from Emyr Roberts, who has led the organisation since it was set up in 2013 and retired last week.

Currently Director for Culture, Tourism and Sport in Westminster’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, Pillman has previously worked for bodies including Historic England, Visit Britain and the Royal Parks.

She grew up near Mold, where she now lives, and has previously been responsible for running Her Majesty’s Courts Service in Wales, gaining recognition for her contribution to bilingualism in the justice system.

Natural Resources Wales exists to pursue sustainable management of natural resources in Wales, looking after air, land, water and wildlife. It acts as the regulator for waste issues, prosecuting waste criminals in the country.

Pillman will take up the post in late February 2018, with NRW’s Executive Director for Finance and Corporate Services Kevin Ingram taking up the role on an interim basis until then.

Commenting on the new role, Pillman said: “NRW is an extraordinary organisation with a wide and aspirational remit, a strong and committed professional workforce and a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of Wales’ unique landscapes.

“I look forward to working with the Chair, Board, Executive Team and all the staff to take the important work of NRW to the next level.”

Diane McCrea, Chair of Natural Resources Wales, added: “We are looking forward to the next part of our journey as an organisation and building on the foundation that Emyr Roberts put in place.

“I want to welcome Clare as she joins us and as we continue our crucial work to look after the fantastic environment we have in Wales for its people, for wildlife and for the economy.”