Gloucestershire College has begun the search for a new Principal and Chief Executive. The new Principal will be responsible for the biggest Further Education College in Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire College begins search for new Principal and Chief Executive

Gloucestershire College has begun the search for a new Principal and Chief Executive. The new Principal will be responsible for the biggest Further Education College in Gloucestershire, with three main campuses in Cheltenham, Gloucester and the Forest of Dean.

Following Principal Greg Smith’s announcement that he planned to step down from his post this August after sixteen successful years, the Gloucestershire College Board is looking to appoint a high calibre individual who has a passion for education and students, proven strategic leadership experience, and the ability to motivate and inspire the Colleges 1,400 staff. Other important qualities include a passion for excellence and the ability to lead change in order to enhance the College’s position both locally and nationally.

Greg Smith, 62, who is also a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire and Chairman of the Gloucester Heritage Urban Regeneration Company, took over at the college, formerly called Gloscat, in 1997 when it was in a financial mess.

He has overseen the building of two new college campuses in Cheltenham and Gloucester as well as the Forest of Dean campus.

As part of the Gazelle Group of Colleges, the Board will also be looking for someone who can embrace innovation and transform the curriculum to encourage an entrepreneurial mindset in the College’s students, whilst ensuring the viability and integrity of the College is maintained in an ever-changing educational landscape.

Graham Ripley, Chair of Board said; “Appointing a new Principal and Chief Executive is the most important function any governing body can fulfill and the GC Board and I are committed to making an appointment that will continue to take the College forward in terms of raising standards, growing the business and ongoing outstanding engagement with staff, students, employers and the local community.”

“Dr Greg Smith has transformed the College over the past decade and we are sincerely grateful for his outstanding contribution to our success. He leaves the College in a strong position, which offers many fantastic opportunities for our future Principal.”

The appointment has been advertised in the TES and online on The Sunday Times and Gloucestershire College websites.

The TES advert can be viewed online here: http://www.tes.co.uk/job/principal-and-chief-executive-104247/