Who we are

We're the regulator for higher education in England. 

We are a non-departmental public body, meaning we are accountable to Parliament. We receive statutory guidance on strategic priorities from the Department for Education, but our operations are independent. Read more about our relationship with government.

Our people

Our board is responsible for setting our strategy and making sure we deliver it.

Our leadership team is responsible for delivering our objectives and business plan.

Our scheme of delegation sets out how we make decisions in line with our legal powers and functions:

Our committees

The board has five formal committees, with a mix of board members and independent members:

  • The Provider Risk Committee
  • The Quality Assessment Committee
  • The Remuneration and Nominations Committee
  • The Risk and Audit Committee
  • The Student Interest Board.
Last updated 22 May 2025
22 May 2025
Page updated with the announcement of our new Student Interest Board.
30 July 2024
Page updated to reflect the appointment of Sir David Behan as Interim Chair.
10 July 2024
Page updated to reflect the resignation of James Wharton as Chair.
02 September 2022
Page updated to reflect the appointment of Susan Lapworth as chief executive.
01 May 2022
Updated chief executive.
01 April 2021
Updated to reflect change of chair

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