The Department for Work and Pensions has appointed Anthony Arter as the interim chair of The Pensions Ombudsman (TPO).

Arter brings a range of industry experience to the role, including as former pensions ombudsman, and deputy pensions ombudsman and deputy Pension Protection Fund ombudsman.

He succeeds Caroline Rookes, who sadly passed away in 2023, after serving as chair of TPO since September 2019.

However, the DWP confirmed that this is an interim appointment, with a recruitment campaign to be undertaken to fill the position permanently.

Commenting on his appointment, Arter stated: “It is with mixed emotions that I have accepted the role of TPO’s interim chair following the unexpected, sad and untimely death of Caroline Rookes.

“However, it is an honour to have been appointed and I look forward to working with my fellow non-executive directors supporting the pensions ombudsman Dominic Harris and his colleagues, in order to meet the organisation’s strategic objectives.”

Adding to this, Pensions Minister, Paul Maynard, said: “I am pleased to welcome Anthony Arter CBE as the interim chair of TPO. He brings a wealth of experience and I look forward to working with him.

“Following the tragic loss of Caroline Rookes, I would also like to pay tribute to the steadfast leadership and dedication she provided during her time in the role.”

Pensions ombudsman, Dominic Harris, added: “I am delighted that Anthony has agreed to fill the void left by Caroline’s sad death, until such time as a permanent chair is appointed.

“It is important that the organisation has stability, and it is an excellent idea to appoint someone with Anthony’s knowledge and experience of TPO to support us through this period. I am looking forward to continuing our good working relationship.”

In his capacity as interim chair, Arter will be entitled to an annual remuneration of £24,000, based on a minimum time commitment of 36 days per year.

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