One of the country’s leading experts in skills and apprenticeships has been appointed the new Chair of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

Peter Lauener becomes Chair of CITB on 1 May when James Wates steps down from the role he has held for eight years.

The appointment was made by Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Anne Milton.

Peter comes with a wealth of experience in skills and education. He is the current, interim Chief Executive of the Student Loans Company, and he will initially continue in this role alongside his position as Chair of CITB.

Previously, Peter has been chief executive of the Institute for Apprenticeships, and the Education and Skills Funding Agency. He has also been Director of Skills at the former Department for Education and Skills, among many senior roles in the skills and education field.

Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Anne Milton said: “I am pleased to appoint Peter Lauener as the new Chair of the Construction Industry Training Board. Peter’s knowledge of the skills industry, along with his experience, will help his work with the CITB to make sure that our country has the construction skills it needs.

“Peter will take over from James Wates in May. I would like to thank James for the contribution he has made to the CITB during his time as Chair, and I wish him the very best for the future.”

Peter Lauener, incoming Chair of CITB, said: “I am delighted to be appointed as Chair of the CITB. I know how committed the industry is to training and I am looking forward to working with industry leaders, together with Sarah Beale and her committed executive team at CITB to make construction an exemplar for skills development.”