The Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, announced on 11 September 2026 the appointment of Alan Lovell as Chair of British Steel. According to the announcement, Lovell was to take up the role on Monday 14 September 2026 and would lead the Board in stabilising and transforming the company.

The announcement said Lovell has held executive and non-executive leadership roles across infrastructure, construction, energy and financial services, including as chief executive of six companies such as Infinis, Tamar Energy and Costain Group plc, and as Chair of Interserve Group. It noted he has chaired the Environment Agency since September 2022 and would step down at the end of December 2026 after an extended term.

Reynolds said Lovell would work with the workforce, the Board and local communities. Lovell said the company's steel is vital to Britain's defence, infrastructure and buildings, and that the Board was focused on building a sustainable business for employees, customers, suppliers and supply chains.