Two new non-executive directors appointed to the DVSA board
Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, has appointed 2 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. Both appointments started on 3 August 2026.
Non-executive directors provide challenge and support to a wide variety of management and operational issues. They contribute to the effective strategic and operational leadership of the DVSA.
All appointments are made on merit, and political activity plays no part in the selection process, nor is a bar to appointment.
Debbie Francis OBE
Debbie Francis OBE
Debbie Francis OBE is an experienced chair, non-executive director and executive leader with over 25 years’ experience across transport, infrastructure, housing, health, education and culture.
She has held senior executive roles including Managing Director of Loram UK and Direct Rail Services, and Finance and Commercial Director for Network Rail’s London North Western route, leading complex operations in highly regulated environments.
Her portfolio includes Chair of Harwich Haven Authority and the Hallé Orchestra’s Governing Body, Governor of Liverpool John Moores University, and Non-Executive Director of MDC Stockport.
Her achievements include leading business turnaround and profitability improvement at Loram UK, revenue and profit growth at Direct Rail Services, and major governance, operational and stakeholder improvements across public and private sector organisations.
She is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, Master of Business Adminstration qualified and a Chartered Director.
John Parkinson CBE
John Parkinson CBE
John Parkinson CBE recently retired from his role as Director for UK, International and Trade in the Department for Transport (DfT). In this role he was responsible for leading engagement with the devolved governments and international partners, international strategy and co-ordination of trade policy, including the promotion of transport-related exports and inward investment.
John was a career civil servant, working predominantly in transport. He held high-profile senior leadership roles in aviation security, airports policy, motoring and freight, and as DfT’s senior responsible owner for EU Exit.
He has worked with a broad range of senior stakeholders, including within Whitehall, with arms-length bodies and across the wider transport sector.
He is highly experienced in policy development and implementation, operational delivery, and crisis response and is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, particularly as a champion for disability.
Notes to editors
Non-Executive Directors of the DVSA are remunerated at £15,000 per annum.
All public appointments are made on merit following a fair and open process.
Political activity plays no part in the selection process. In accordance with the Governance Code, any declared political activity must be made public. Debbie Francis and John Parkinson have declared no political activity.