Today’s announcement marks the end of an era for the DVSA. Loveday Ryder has stepped down as Chief Executive after five years in post, leading the agency through what was arguably the toughest period in its history.

Whatever your personal view of DVSA or its leadership, there’s no denying the size of the task she took on. Loveday inherited an agency mid-lockdown, with a mountain of backlogs, a frustrated public, and an industry on its knees. Since then, she’s had to steer through recovery, reform, and relentless demand while under constant scrutiny from all sides.

From the DITC’s perspective, we want to acknowledge that she always made time to engage directly with instructors. She didn’t hide behind press releases. She showed up to forums, spoke with stakeholders, and gave ADIs the opportunity to be heard. That matters.

As she steps down, we wish her well. Family comes first, and we respect her choice to prioritise that.

Now our eyes turn to what’s next. The new leadership will inherit a long to-do list: waiting times that still hurt learners and instructors alike, a booking system that needs real improvement, ongoing examiner shortages, and an industry crying out for meaningful collaboration.

We’ll continue to represent instructors’ voices within DVSA discussions, and we’ll be ready to build a constructive relationship with whoever takes the helm next.

Change is coming again. Let’s make sure it’s the kind that counts.