College Chair is appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London

The new Chair of London South East Colleges, Stephen Howlett, has been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London by Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London, Mr Kenneth Olisa OBE.

In this prestigious role Stephen will support the Lord-Lieutenant in a range duties, including the implementation of his strategy – ‘Building Bridges for a Fairer London.’

Stephen was selected for the appointment following many years of dedicated service to his local community within the housing and education sectors. Together with 13 years as Chief Executive of Peabody, Stephen has also been Chair and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Greenwich and Vice-Chair at Canterbury College.

In August this year, Stephen became Chair of London South East Colleges, bringing his vast education and property expertise to the merged College, which has campuses across Bromley, Bexley, Greenwich and Orpington.

There are 101 Deputy Lieutenants (DLs) in the Greater London Lieutenancy and are widely representative of the area with regard to race, gender and service to the community. They support the Lord-Lieutenant with a number of activities including royal visits and awards. DLs also work to establish supportive links with local government, charities, the military and youth organisations.

Speaking about his appointment, Stephen Howlett says:

 “I am both honoured and delighted to be given this role. My career in housing and education has provided me with many years’ experience and understanding of the local area. I feel I can offer valuable support to the Lord-Lieutenant, particularly in relation to his ‘Building Bridges for a Fairer London strategy.

“In addition, having been Chair of both a University and a College – and recently taking up the position as Chair of London South East Colleges – I am passionate about education. I have seen on a personal level just how vital colleges are to social mobility and improving people’s life and career prospects.

“This is a busy and exciting time for me. I look forward to serving the local and wider community in both roles by drawing on my experience and helping to make a positive difference.” 

Congratulation Stephen on his appointment, Principal and CEO of London South East Colleges, Sam Parratt OBE, says:

“On behalf of London South East Colleges, I offer Stephen many congratulations on this well-earned appointment.

“Stephen is a passionate believer in social mobility and the impact that good health, education and housing provision has on this. Stephen’s new role as a Deputy Lieutenant recognises his good work throughout London over many years and is testament to his dedication and commitment to the local community.”

 For more information about the role of the Greater London Lieutenancy, please click here.