Susan Lapworth confirmed as new OfS chief executive

The Office for Students has confirmed that its interim chief executive, Susan Lapworth, has been appointed to the position permanently.

Ms Lapworth, who has been in post since May 2022, succeeded the OfS’ inaugural chief executive, Nicola Dandridge, who stepped down at the end of April.

A former director of regulation for the OfS, 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.

Over a career in higher education spanning 19 years, she has also served as registrar for several UK universities.

Ms Lapworth takes the top job at a crucial time for the English regulator, which has signalled its intention to be more interventionist in upholding quality in the sector. On 2 September, it announced that it would investigate three providers over grade inflation, and it has also promised “boots on the ground” inspections to tackle poor-quality courses.

The secretary of state for education, James Cleverly, said Ms Lapworth had “demonstrated her leadership skills and put students’ interests first” during her time in the post so far.

“I look forward to seeing her play a pivotal role in improving graduate outcomes and ensuring that all students receive the high-quality academic experience they deserve,” he added.

Ms Lapworth said she was “delighted” to have been appointed chief executive, adding: “English universities and colleges make an enormous contribution to society and individuals, through teaching, research and work in their communities. 

“This complex and diverse sector would not have a regulator if its work was unimportant, and I look forward to continuing to work with the excellent team at the OfS to ensure that students from all backgrounds can access and succeed on high-quality courses which leave them well prepared for life after graduation.”

tom.williams@timeshighereducation.com