A former maths teacher who became a regional schools commissioner has been appointed as the interim chief executive of the Department for Education department that oversees academies, the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).

John Edwards, who is also a former director of education and skills at Manchester City Council, has most recently been working as ESFA’s director of funding.

DfE permanent secretary Susan Acland-Hood said: “John is a thoughtful and authentic leader and will be an outstanding interim CEO, and member of the DfE’s Leadership Team.

Exclusive: Eight single academy trusts still pay leaders more than the PM

Revealed: The top paying MATs awarding pay rises last year

Finances: Pay restraint is over for larger MAT leaders, new report suggests

“I know he will do a remarkable job in leading the excellent staff of the ESFA, and in shaping the future of the Department as a whole.”

Mr Edwards replaces outgoing chief executive Eileen Milner, who takes up the role of chief executive at the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.

Before joining local government, Mr Edwards had worked in schools across Yorkshire for over a decade, as a maths teacher, head of sixth form and senior leader.

He said: “I am delighted and privileged to be appointed as interim CEO of the ESFA, and am very much looking forward to leading the Agency through the coming months.”