Paula will step down after four years at the helm, having successfully navigated the organization through the epidemic and overseeing a considerable transformation to more modern, customer-focused procedures and systems.
“I am very proud of what we as a team have done during my tenure at the Student Loans Company,” Paula Sussex said in a statement announcing her decision.
We have not only made significant improvements that benefit our customers, but we have also laid strong foundations that will allow the transformation to continue and the company to play its critical role in delivering the UK Government’s education reforms, including the new Lifelong Loan Entitlement.
None of this would have been possible without the dedication and perseverance of everyone at SLC. It’s a good time to start looking for a new CEO now that you have a great team in place.”
“Paula has done an exceptional job leading the Student Loans Company, especially through the pandemic, providing student finance to a record number of students while continuing to transform the business and improve students’ experience,” said Michelle Donelan, Minister for Higher and Further Education.
“I am confident that the SLC will continue to build on these successes as we deliver vital reform of our further and higher education sector and promote lifelong learning. I am very grateful for everything Paula has achieved and look forward to working closely with her successor.”
Peter Lauener, SLC Chair, said: “Since joining in 2018, Paula has changed the Student Loans Company for the better. She has overseen the delivery of our transformation programme and improved the experience offered to customers as well as the overall health of our organisation. SLC is a stronger, more resilient and more confident organisation with a bright future.”
SLC has commenced the process of recruiting a new CEO and the appointment will be subject to Ministerial approval. Paula will remain in post until the end of the year to oversee the continued delivery of SLC’s strategy and to support a smooth transition to the new CEO.