Environment Secretary George Eustice has today (Tuesday, July 19) confirmed that Alan Lovell DL is to be the next chair of the Environment Agency.
“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,” he said.
“His knowledge and experience will be a real asset as we work together to improve and enhance the natural environment.”
Lovell is an experienced chair of both commercial and not-for-profit enterprises. He is currently, chairman of the Interserve Group Ltd. and chair of Safestyle UK plc.
In the past, he was chair of the Consumer Council for Water for four years and chaired the University of Winchester and the Mary Rose Trust.
His executive career included time as a chief executive of six companies, including Infinis, Jarvis, Costain and Dunlop Slazenger.
His appointment follows a government report and public hearing into his suitability for the role and his selection followed a rigorous process conducted in accordance with the Ministerial Governance Code on Public Appointments.
Lovell said he is honoured at this recent appointment.
“This [the Environment Agency] 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,” he said,
“It will be a privilege to join them and to try to make a difference.”
He will take up the post on September 26.
Outgoing chair Emma Howard Boyd welcomed Lovell, saying:
“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.
“The Environment Agency is a fantastic organisation of committed public servants who save lives, protect nature and support business,” she added.
“It’s been a privilege to be chair.”
