Richard Pennycook appointed Lead Non-Executive Board Member

The Department for Education has announced today, Monday 23 October, the appointment of Richard Pennycook to the Board as Lead Non-Executive Board Member.

As the former CEO of The Co-Operative Group, Richard has first-hand experience in change management and staff engagement, and in creating a workplace driven by core values. This background makes Richard the ideal candidate to work with our leadership team on the Building Our Department Together programme, making our Department an even better place to work.

The Secretary of State for Education, Justine Greening, has appointed Richard to support her role as chair of the Board, and to engage with a wide range of people across the Department. He will work closely with the Permanent Secretary to ensure the Department is meeting its strategic priorities. He will also bring together the commercial and management expertise of our Non-Executive Board members to offer robust advice and challenge.

Richard Pennycook said:

I am honoured to have been appointed as the Lead Non-Executive on the DfE Board. I look forward to taking on the challenge and to supporting the people who deliver some of our most important public services; including educating our children and young people and safeguarding those who are at risk.

Education Secretary Justine Greening, said:

I am delighted that Richard has agreed to be our Lead Non-Executive. The Board plays a vital role in helping our Department to work efficiently and strategically. Richard’s experience in driving change, creating a values-based culture and engaging with staff will be crucial in helping us to build our capability.

Permanent Secretary, Jonathan Slater, said:

I’m looking forward to working closely with Richard to achieve our key objectives, in particular making the Department a great place to work for our staff. I know that our colleagues will join me in warmly welcoming Richard to the Department.