Recruitment campaign launches for inaugural Chair of new environment watchdog
The successful candidate will oversee the work of the new Office for Environmental Protection.
The independent body will monitor progress towards improving the natural environment and investigate potential breaches of environmental law.
The recruitment campaign for the inaugural Chair of the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) has begun today (Monday, 10 August).
The successful candidate will be the driving force behind the new green governance body - which will independently scrutinise and advise the government to ensure it sets and meets ambitious targets to improve our environment. It will also have the power to run its own independent investigations and enforce environmental law.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said:
Protecting and enhancing our natural environment is a greater priority than ever before, so it is essential both present and future governments are held to account on our environmental targets.
This new and independent body needs a strong leader who has the passion and commitment needed to deliver real and lasting change for our precious environment, and I encourage all those who fit the bill to apply.
The Office for Environmental Protection will monitor the government’s progress towards improving the natural environment and will investigate complaints regarding failures of public bodies to comply with environmental law.
This body will be legislated for through our landmark Environment Bill, which will enshrine environmental principles into law and introduce measures to improve air and water quality, tackle plastic pollution and restore habitats so plants and wildlife can thrive.
The legislation is currently passing through Parliament, with the watchdog scheduled for creation in 2021, subject to the Bill gaining Royal Assent.
Further information about the vacancy and how to apply can be found on the Cabinet Office Public Appointments website.