It’s official: The Apprentice just got scarier.

And by that, we mean thanks to the latest addition, Claude Littner, known for being a real toughie in the interview rounds.

The BBC has announced he’s taking over as a replacement for Nick Hewer, who bowed out of the show last year after a 10-year stint on the show.

Claude Littner
Claude Littner will be joining Lord Alan Sugar’s panel (BBC)

Claude pulls no punches and just the mere thought and mention of him normally strikes fear into the hearts of the bravest and cockiest Apprentice candidates.

Frankly, we cannot wait for him to join the panel.

But to face an enemy, sorry, panellist as tough as that, we think it’s best you’re armed with all you need to know about the newest of Lord Sugar’s Apprentice army.

1. He’s known Lord Sugar for 25 years.

Claude Littner
One of his more memorable interviews was with Luisa Zissman, pictured here, in 2013 (BBC)

He has worked for Lord Sugar in various capacities over the years, notably as director of Amstrad plc, and for Amstrad International, Viglen and Tottenham Hotspur.

2. He’s a straight talker.

Read: scary and does NOT mince his words. Talking about his upcoming stint on the show, he said: “If the candidates think I am soft and fluffy, they haven’t been watching me on The Apprentice over the past decade. I’m ready, and this won’t be a walk in the park!” Was that the sound of a trembling contestant yellling: “Taxxxii!”

3. He coined one of the most repeated phrases in the interview process ever during last year’s show, after telling Solomon his CV was a “bloody disgrace”.

4. He has an academic institution named after him. Last year Lord Sugar was among the VIPs who were at the opening of the University of West London Business School which is named after Claude.

Claude Littner
Here he is pictured in 2013, on The Apprentice, alongside: (left to right) Claudine Collins, Mike Souter and Margaret Mountford (BBC)

It’s a nod to his business acumen and also his many contributions to the university over the years.

5. He’s used to dealing with people.

Talking about his time as chief executive of Tottenham Hotspur (from 1993-1999) he told The Telegraph: “I could write a book about my time there! The job was a challenge, and I met a lot of wonderful people and quite a few truly awful characters.”

6. He started his career as an accountant.

7. He comes with Lord Sugar’s highest approval.

And that’s not something you earn easily. Lord Sugar said: “I first worked with Claude in 1990 and trust his judgment completely. He will no doubt take a very different approach to Nick. It’s great to have him on board.”