The Lord Chancellor, in consultation with the Lord Chief Justice, has announced the appointment of Sir Michael Pitt as Chair of the Legal Services Board (LSB). This appointment is for three years from 1 May 2014 and is subject to clearance.

Sir Michael takes over from David Edmonds who was appointed as the inaugural Chairman of the LSB on 1 May 2008.

Sir Michael, who has no legal background, was previously chief executive of the Planning Inspectorate, will receive a non-pensionable remuneration of £63,000 per annum for a commitment of at least 70 days a year.

Lord Chancellor, Chris Grayling said:

“I am pleased to announce Sir Michael Pitt as the new Chair of the Legal Services Board, and congratulate him on his appointment.

 

“He brings with him experience which will be invaluable to the LSB as it moves forward in its important work overseeing the regulation of legal services in
England and Wales. I wish him good luck in his new role.”

Current Chairman of the Legal Services Board, David Edmonds said:

“I am delighted to welcome Michael as my successor as Chairman of the Legal Services Board. He will take over at a exciting, interesting and challenging time for legal services in England and Wales.

 

“He will lead an organisation of committed proponents of competition, market liberalisation, and putting the consumer interest at the heart of regulation. I
wish him well.”