News story

3 non-executive directors appointed at DVLA

Charmion Pears, Stephen Tetlow MBE, and Sarah Williams-Gardener have all been appointed as non-executive directors to the board of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.

DVLA has today (16 January 2024) announced the appointment of 3 non-executive directors to its board. The appointments come as Chris Morson and Matt King successfully completed their terms as non-executive directors on the DVLA board. The new appointments will work alongside the rest of the DVLA board, which includes David Jones, the recently appointed Chair.  

The following appointments have been made:

Charmion Pears has been appointed as Chair of DVLA’s Audit and Risk Assurance Committee. She has extensive experience as a non-executive director, and trustee with a focus on the public and voluntary sectors. Charmion has proven expertise in strategic leadership, with strong financial acumen and clear understanding of robust governance practices. Charmion currently sits on the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee of the Health and Safety Executive and was most recently a non-executive director of Bristol Waste Company and Corserv Ltd.

Stephen Tetlow MBE is an experienced non-executive director delivering customer-focused change with large-scale digitisation and service innovation. He has a background in engineering and science in defence, including technology leadership. Stephen is currently a non-executive director at The Student Loans Company.

Sarah Williams-Gardener is the Chief Executive Officer at Fintech Wales, leading on its mission to establish Wales as a globally recognised hub of excellence. Sarah’s experience results from many roles, the common thread being technical innovation to increase productivity and inclusive customer experience. Sarah has extensive internal and external leadership experience and has worked with a wide variety of stakeholders. She is also a trustee at Surviving Economic Abuse.

Roads Minister Guy Opperman said:

I would like to thank Chris and Matt for their dedication and fantastic work with DVLA.

I look forward to working closely with Charmion, Stephen and Sarah to ensure DVLA continues its excellent work to deliver fast, efficient and increasingly digital services for customers.

Charmion Pears said:

I am delighted to be joining DVLA as part of the board, working with colleagues to deliver against the agency’s strategic objectives - putting customers, colleagues and innovation at the heart of all we do.

Stephen Tetlow MBE said:

DVLA touches the lives of millions of citizens and businesses. It is a vital part of our national infrastructure. I am privileged to have the opportunity to contribute to its critical role, to help take forward its digital agenda, and to support the interests of all its stakeholders.

Sarah Williams-Gardener said:

I am honoured to accept the non-executive position with DVLA, recognising the critical role it plays in shaping the future of transportation and ensuring the smooth functioning of our nation’s road systems. I am eager to contribute my expertise and collaborate with the esteemed team at DVLA to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and promote a safer, more sustainable future for all road users. Together, we embark on a journey of positive impact and service to the community.

Updates to this page

Published 16 January 2024