13/01/2006 - Chris Mills has been appointed as the new Director of Environment Agency Wales and will take up his duties on Monday, 6 February 2006. Chris succeeds Helen Phillips, who is leaving the Environment Agency to become Chief Executive designate of Natural England.

Environment Agency Wales forms part of the corporate England and Wales Environment Agency jointly sponsored by Defra and Welsh Assembly Government. Its primary aim is to protect and enhance the environment through the integrated management of air, land and water. Its vision is a better environment in Wales for present and future generations.

Commenting upon the appointment, Environment Agency, Director of Operations Paul Leinster said: "Chris Mills brings a range of highly developed skills and experience, having already worked at a senior level in our Thames Region as an Area Manager in two of the Areas, and at our Head Office. His appointment means we will carry on the excellent work of the talented team in Wales delivering our corporate strategy, Creating a Better Place, in the wider context of Assembly, UK and European policies and initiatives."

Chris Mills said: "I am delighted to be offered this opportunity to work for the environment in Wales. We have a huge part to play in building a successful and sustainable Wales. I am looking forward to meeting and working with Agency colleagues and many partner organisations and groups so that we can strive together for the best possible environmental, social and economic outcome for the people of Wales."