Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, has appointed two new non-executive directors to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) board. Debbie Francis OBE and John Parkinson CBE have been appointed for 3-year terms, with both appointments commencing on 3 August 2026.
Non-executive directors are responsible for providing challenge and support on a range of management and operational issues, contributing to the effective strategic and operational leadership of the DVSA.
Debbie Francis OBE brings over 25 years of experience across transport, infrastructure, housing, health, education, and culture, having held senior executive roles including Managing Director of Loram UK and Direct Rail Services. John Parkinson CBE recently retired from his role as Director for UK, International and Trade in the Department for Transport (DfT) and is a career civil servant with extensive experience in transport.
All appointments are made on merit, with political activity playing no part in the selection process. Both Debbie Francis and John Parkinson have declared no political activity.