Environment secretary George Eustice recently announced the appointment of Alan Lovell DL as the new chair of the Environment Agency.
Speaking last week, Eustice said that Lovell would “bring a wide range of experience, enthusiasm and leadership to the role.”
Indeed, Lovell has served in the role of chair in the commercial and not-for-profit sectors and is currently chair of the Interserve Group Ltd, as well as a senior independent director on the SIG plc board and chair of Safestyle UK plc.
He has also previously been CEO of six companies – which include Infinis, Jarvis, Costain and Dunlop Slazenger – and was chair of the Consumer Council for Water for a four-year period.
Delighted to bring such experience on board, Eustice said: “I am delighted he (Alan Lovell) 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.”
Commenting on his appointment, Alan Lovell said it was an “honour” to be chosen.
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, the outgoing chair of the Environment Agency, said: “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.”
Lovell’s appointment to the position follows a joint report by the EFRA and EAC committees into his suitability for the position, which was published on July 8, 2022.
Lovell’s appointment was made entirely in accordance with the Ministerial Governance Code on Public Appointments, and he will take up his new role on September 26, 2022.
Photo by ANGELA BENITO on Unsplash
