Susan Lapworth to be interim head of English sector regulator

The English sector regulator, the Office for Students, has named Susan Lapworth as its interim chief executive.

Ms Lapworth, currently director of regulation at the OfS, will take on the top job when Nicola Dandridge steps down at the end of April. She is due to hold the role for the rest of 2022, while a permanent replacement is recruited by the Department for Education.

Ms Lapworth held a number of senior roles at the OfS’ predecessor organisation, the Higher Education Funding Council for England, including as director of regulation and assurance. Before that, she served as registrar at several UK universities.

Lord Wharton of Yarm, the OfS’ chair, said it was “an excellent appointment to see the OfS through an important phase of our work”.

“Susan has worked closely with the board since the OfS was established and is perfectly placed to lead the team through this period,” Lord Wharton said.

“Her experience and expertise has been invaluable to the OfS, and I am looking forward to working closely with her in this new role.”

chris.havergal@timeshighereducation.com