Executive Director Business Development and Apprenticeships in Croydon

Croydon College is a vibrant, ambitious education and skills provider with a broad Further and Higher Education offer, committed to transforming lives, enhancing opportunities and contributing to economic prosperity in Croydon and its surrounding areas. Formed by a merger of Croydon College and Coulsdon Sixth Form College in 2019, we have been on a remarkable journey of transformation and growth in the last few years, culminating in our recent Good Ofsted grade. An impactful anchor institution, the college contributes significantly to the success and regeneration of Croydon, which is London’s largest borough and home to a thriving business community.

With our recent successes as a sound platform, we are in the process of developing an ambitious growth strategy. With forecasted demographic growth, a flourishing local economy and a plethora of large employers on our doorstep, there are ample opportunities to further develop our provision. The main growth focus is likely to be in apprenticeships, high needs and NEET provision, all of which are areas of high demand in our local area, and we are also keen to expand our core student cohorts and seek new ventures. The college has an excellent reputation, with well-embedded strategic partnerships and a supportive alumni network to build upon. In addition, we have a robust financial position, with significant opportunities to invest in our facilities as we grow our offer and student numbers.

The Executive Director Business Development and Apprenticeships is a newly created role, to reflect our commitment to our growth agenda. Reporting directly to the Principal and CEO, and working closely with the Governing Body, the Executive Director will drive the college’s strategic growth, leading on business development, income generation, apprenticeship expansion and external engagement. The new post holder will identify and develop new ventures and innovative business opportunities, while building strategic alliances with employers and other key stakeholders. Key to success will be delivering significant growth in apprenticeships, ensuring that this provision meets local economic needs and maintains quality standards.

Our ideal candidate will have experience of delivering business development and commercial growth in the education and skills sector, with a successful track record in external engagement. A highly visible leader with an empowering style, you will have the ability to set strategic direction and to influence key stakeholders at all levels. We are seeking an individual who brings a passion for securing the best outcomes for students and an ethos that is in line with our FREDIE principles (Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement).