Head of Business Development and Employer skills in London

At Capel Manor College, we are redefining what employer-led education looks like within the land-based and environmental sector. As London’s specialist environmental college, we work at the intersection of education, industry, sustainability and skills, delivering apprenticeships, adult learning, commercial training, careers education and employer engagement across a rapidly evolving economy.

We are now seeking an ambitious and commercially minded Head of Business Development and Employer Skills to lead the growth and development of our adult skills and short course provision. This is a high-profile leadership role within the Employer Skills, Innovation and Growth Directorate, reporting directly to the Assistant Principal.

The successful candidate will lead the strategic development of industry training, professional short courses, adult skills provision and employer-led upskilling activity, helping to position the College as a leading provider of green skills and workforce development across London and beyond. The role combines commercial leadership, curriculum innovation, employer engagement and operational management.

You will work closely with employers, local authorities, strategic partners and sector bodies to develop provision that responds directly to workforce demand, LSIP priorities and emerging industry trends. You will also lead key areas including Careers Education and employability activity across the College, while supporting wider strategic projects linked to growth, innovation and income diversification.

We are looking for a candidate who brings significant experience of working within Further Education, skills, training or workforce development environments, alongside a strong understanding of adult funding methodologies, employer engagement and project delivery. You will be confident leading teams, managing income targets, developing partnerships and identifying new opportunities for growth.

In return, the College offers a collaborative and ambitious working environment, opportunities for professional development and the chance to make a significant impact within one of London’s most distinctive specialist education providers.

Over the last 50 years, Capel Manor College has helped thousands of school leavers and adults achieve their dream of working with animals, plants and the environment. As London’s environmental college, the College plays a vital role in the green agenda for the capital, equipping the next generation of land-based sector workers with the skills and knowledge needed to preserve and protect London’s wildlife, national parks and green spaces.

Capel Manor College offers excellent staff benefits. These include generous annual leave, access to a defined pension scheme, retail and leisure discounts and access to an online GP.

At Capel Manor College, we are dedicated to creating and promoting an equal, diverse, and inclusive workforce that empowers all employees to reach their full potential. We strive for a truly representative workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Additionally, we are firmly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety of our students. We expect all staff members to share and uphold this commitment.

Please note that the College does not have a sponsorship licence. We are therefore unable to consider applicants who do not have the right to work in the UK. We reserve the right to close a position once sufficient suitable applications have been received to form a short list. Early application is therefore encouraged.