The Legal Services Board (LSB) has appointed Jelena Lentzos as Director of Strategy, Policy & Engagement. She will lead the LSB’s strategy, policy, and research teams at a pivotal moment for legal services regulation. It is one defined by rapid change, growing consumer need, and significant opportunity for sector-wide growth.
Jelena previously served as Interim Director of Regulation, Policy and Strategy at the LSB and brings nearly two decades of policy and government experience, with a proven track record of delivering change collaboratively and putting users at the heart of policymaking. Jelena’s appointment comes as the LSB further sharpens its focus on regulation’s role in protecting consumers and supporting growth and prepares to consult on the organisation’s priorities through to 2030.
She will lead the development of that work, drawing on the LSB’s research, developing horizon-scanning and market-intelligence capabilities, and working closely with regulators and the wider sector to ensure it is grounded in evidence and drives measurable improvements in outcomes for consumers. The Public Bodies Review will also provide an opportunity to strengthen how the LSB delivers for consumers and the public, and taking forward the recommendations will be a priority.
LSB Chief Executive Richard Orpin said,
“Jelena brings deep policy expertise and a clear understanding of how regulation affects people’s lives. Her experience delivering complex change collaboratively across government and with the legal profession makes her exceptionally well placed to lead our strategy and engagement work at this important time. She has a strong track record of putting consumers and users at the heart of her work, and I know she will bring the same commitment as we deepen our focus on ensuring regulation protects consumers and supports growth and innovation in the legal services market.”
Jelena said:
“I am delighted to be taking on this role. The legal services sector is changing rapidly. AI is transforming how services are accessed and delivered, and consumers needs and expectations of the market are changing. These changes bring real opportunities to improve access to justice and support a growing legal services market, but they also carry risks that regulation must keep pace with to protect consumers effectively.
“I am committed to working with regulators, consumers and the wider sector to ensure the LSB’s work delivers a legal services market that protects consumers, supports innovation and growth, and works for everyone who needs legal help.”
Jelena’s Biography
Before joining the LSB, Jelena was Deputy Director of Legal Aid Policy at the Ministry of Justice, where she oversaw legal aid policy and strategy and led significant reforms to fee schemes and eligibility criteria. She has also held senior roles in criminal legal aid, victims’ support, private family law, and arm’s-length body sponsorship.