Welcome to the Corporation

Matt joined the Corporation on 1 April 2023 and is Managing Director of FE Associates, a provider of specialist consultancy services to the further education and skills sector and has held this role since September 2016. Prior to this he was Principal and CEO of Bath College for 9 years. Matt first started working in the FE sector in 1994 and has worked with several organisations in different parts of the country, initially as a teacher and then a college leader. He has previously served as a non-executive for a number of education organisations in the South West including the Wellsway Multi-Academy Trust, Strode College and the Bath Education Trust. In addition, Matt has contributed to the development of policy and practice at a national level as a former trustee of the Learning and Skills Improvement Service and the Chair of the Skills Commission's review into intervention in the further education sector. Matt's current professional interests are centred around developing leaders for the future and driving innovation in education and skills to better meet the needs of learners, employers and communities.

Lynne joined the Corporation from 1 April 2020 and has been involved in FE for more than 25 years, beginning as a part time lecturer teaching computing and office studies progressing to a full time post teaching on management and teacher training courses. A variety of posts focusing on quality and improving teaching and learning led to her appointment as Vice Principal for curriculum and quality at Gloucestershire College. During her time at the college she helped to improve standards and develop curriculum. Lynne became site Principal for the Royal Forest of Dean College when they merged with Gloucestershire College. As part of this role she led the initial design of the new college campus in the Forest.

As part of her involvement in improving quality Lynne has been an inspector with ALI and Ofsted. Other posts include the chair of the South West Peer Confederation, a member of the LSIS Council and a school governor. Lynne has also been a Trustee for Young Gloucestershire.

After leaving Gloucestershire College Lynne set up her own business as an educational consultant and she has carried out several independent curriculum projects for colleges. Alongside this business Lynne spent five years as an FE Adviser working for the FE Commissioner helping to improve performance in colleges across the country. Since leaving the Commission she has taken on interim senior management roles.

David joined South Gloucestershire and Stroud College as CEO and Principal in March 2025. He previously spent 20+ years as a civil servant, most recently as the Chief Executive of the Education and Skills Funding Agency, the Government body responsible for funding schools, colleges and training providers in England.

David started his career working on the Northern Ireland political process, and subsequently led teams working on public spending at HM Treasury. He spent 8 years in Australia, including as Chief Operating Officer at the New South Wales Department of Education. He also led the COVID Economic Taskforce in NSW. He has a BA(Hons) in History from the University of Nottingham and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.

David grew up in Dorset and now lives in Somerset with his wife Carey and three children where he can usually be found watching football and cricket, running (slowly), walking the dog and trying to find more time to read.

Douglas is the elected President of President of the European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ENQA) which has members and affiliates in 45 countries in the European Higher Education Area.

He is the former Chief Executive of the UK's independent Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) whose role is to ensure academic standards are maintained and that student learning opportunities are of the highest quality across the four nations of the UK. Douglas held Executive roles there for 20 years and now acts as an international consultant for QAA. He also provides independent consultancy related to higher education and regulation for other clients.

In addition to being a Board member of South Gloucestershire and Stroud College he holds non-executive director roles in education and regulation, including being a member of the Boards of Qualifications Wales, Cilex Legal Regulation, the University of Law, the British University in Egypt, and is an Advisory Board member of Future Learn.

Claire joined the Corporation in March 2024 and is currently Head of Languages at the University of Bath, having previously held the role of Safeguarding Manager. In her current role she leads foreign language provision and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programmes for students, faculty, and the wider community. Her focus is on delivering exceptional educational provision that fosters language proficiency and prioritizes student success, well-being, and employability. Her approach is marked by an emphasis on innovation in curricula, pedagogy, and the integration of enriching cultural experiences.

Before entering Higher Education, Claire accumulated over two decades of experience in secondary and all-through schools, both in the UK and abroad. A qualified French and Spanish teacher, she holds a Master's degree in educational leadership and a National Professional Qualification for Headship. She held varied roles in middle and senior leadership across both state and private sectors and led three schools as Head, Principal and Executive Headteacher. Claire is passionate about the profound impact of education on individuals and communities. Her dedication to enhancing the educational experience and outcomes for students is based on her firm belief in the transformative power of learning.

Charmain joined the Corporation 1 March 2024, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and experience as an accomplished Safeguarding Lead. Her career journey includes serving in various educational capacities, such as Pastoral, Behaviour, and Safeguarding Lead in diverse school environments. Currently Deputy Head at Bredon School, Charmain also possesses substantial leadership and strategic expertise as well as ensuring the well-being of students.

Charmain's passion lies in working collaboratively with children, young people, parents, and staff. She is driven by a desire to elevate standards and strive for excellence, ensuring that everyone in the educational community feels not only safe but also valued, respected, and understood. Charmain believes in creating an environment where individuals have a sense of purpose and belonging, emphasising the importance of responsibility.

Charmain's dedication to creating a positive, inclusive, supportive, compassionate, and kind culture resonates not only in her professional endeavours but also in her personal interests. Her leadership and strategic experience make her a valuable asset, capable of steering organisations towards success and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Shaun joined the Corporation from 1 August 2025 and brings extensive experience in further education to his role as staff governor at SGS College. A long-serving natural sciences lecturer, he is passionate about student success and interdisciplinary learning.

Alongside teaching, Shaun has championed staff wellbeing through his work with the college's UCU branch, contributing to positive changes in working conditions. Nationally, he played a key role in shaping the T Level in Animal Management as part of the validation panel, supporting one of the most significant reforms in FE in recent years.

Currently undertaking a Level 7 CIPD qualification, Shaun is strengthening his expertise in people strategy, adding valuable perspective to both his governance and professional roles. A committed marathon runner, he brings focus, stamina, and long-term vision to the Corporation. Having seen the college evolve over time, he remains dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all.

Yusuf Ibrahim is an Assistant Principal at Cardiff and Vale College. He is passionate about enhancing the leadership prospects for people from all walks of life, particularly those from under-represented and under-privileged backgrounds. Yusuf has worked at national level, contributing to the design and delivery of the adapted assessment model during the pandemic. He is currently leading the Anti-Racism Materials Project across the FE sector as well as leading significant curriculum areas within the college. A digital transformer, Yusuf is determined to ensure that new technologies are an enabler for positive change for all, allowing more people to access opportunities to learn and progress.

Yusuf began as Religious Education & Psychology teacher and quickly progressed to lead on designing a new KS3 Skills Based Learning programme. With over fifteen years' experience, Yusuf's career has seen him work as a middle, senior and executive leader in London, Bristol and Cardiff. Working within the schools and FE sectors, Yusuf's experiences have seen him hold a variety of leadership positions at middle, senior and executive level. A values-based leader, Yusuf believes in building supporting teams that work in effective systems to meet the needs of learners, staff, communities and businesses.

Paulette was appointed Staff Governor from 1st August 2025. She has dedicated 18 years to SGS College. She began as a lecturer in Early Years then, 16 years as a Learning Area Manager (LAM). Although, she refers to herself as the "Black Sheep," paving her own way and encouraging others to do the same. Colleagues often remark on her ability to engage in conversation (a polite way of saying she talks too much), but she also listens to improve herself and support others, fostering positive relationships, transparent communication, and mutual support.

Her experience spans across Filton, Stroud, and WISE, where she participated in cross-college committee groups. Additionally, she holds the Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert certification, which underscores her commitment to integrating technology in education. She is also a first aider and mental health first aider. Her background includes experience in Outdoor Education, two private schools (primary and secondary), three FE Colleges (including HE), and a Sixth Form College working in Bahrain and London.

Charmaine Lawrence joined the Corporation in April 2025 and brings over a decade of experience in youth and community development. She is currently CEO of Full Circle Docklands, a leading Bristol charity providing vital services to children, young people, and families. Alongside this role, she serves as Deputy Chair of the East Central Youth and Play Partnership, championing the work of the youth sector and diverse communities, and promoting collaborative working across the sector.

To date, Charmaine has spent her career designing and delivering impactful programmes that support young people’s personal growth, well-being, and future opportunities. With a strong strategic mindset and a flair for creative ideas, she has led initiatives that empower individuals while strengthening the resilience of communities. Her expertise spans service delivery, organisational leadership, partnership development, and strategic planning, particularly within culturally diverse and dynamic environments.

Passionate about ensuring that opportunity is accessible to all, Charmaine is committed to building inclusive spaces where every young person can thrive. She believes in the power of generous leadership — unlocking potential, driving collaboration, and creating environments where innovation and community spirit lead to real, lasting change. Her entrepreneurial spirit, combined with a deep dedication to social impact, ensures she brings energy, vision, and a results-driven approach to her governance role.

Dave has worked within the plumbing and heating industry for over 30 years and is the owner and Managing Director of Merretts Heating Services. In 2014, Dave was part of the launch of the new plumbing and heating apprenticeship standard, and he has been heavily involved in the development of that standard. He also now serves on the apprenticeship board, overseeing the new standard.

Irene joined the Corporation on 1 November 2021. Irene is a business leader and a serial entrepreneur. She is the former CEO of Sia Partners UK & Ireland (management and data science consultancy) where she led a Business Transformation, Growth & Innovation, Utilities and FS practices. Prior to joining Sia Partners in 2016, Irene co-founded a business transformation firm Molten (which was sold to Sia Partners) which had offices in London, Houston and Moscow. Irene co-founded Molten Technologies (virtual Desktop firm), was a Chairman of Giffords Circus, an NED and Co-owner of Lillingston (bespoke event organisers) and is the NED and co-owner of Lynwood & Co (a Cotswolds Cafe Chain). Irene's specialism is digital and business transformation having developed and implemented strategies and operating models for multinational globally. She knows how to grow and pivot business to be profitable and sustainable. Irene’s passion is Diversity & Inclusion and she has run numerous programmes in this area.

David joined the corporation on 1 April 2025. He is a Chartered Member of the CIPD and a Level 7 qualified HR professional with over a decade of experience in HR and leadership roles across several sectors including manufacturing, construction, and hospitality. David is currently HR Manager for a global manufacturing organisation and is recognised for his strategic approach to people development and his commitment to building inclusive, high-performing workplaces.

He is passionate about supporting individuals to reach their full potential and has an established relationship with SGS College, having successfully placed multiple apprentices across multiple campuses.

Gill joined the Corporation from 1 August 2025 and brings a deep understanding of further and higher education, a global perspective, and a passion for inclusive, high-quality learning environments that enable people to thrive.

Gill is an experienced Organisational Development consultant and former Director of Employability & Partnerships at Hartpury University and Hartpury College. She has more recently focussed on strategic people related initiatives, working with commercial and education sector clients to build and embed culture and values aligned with business strategy. With an MBA (Distinction), she blends commercial insight with a strong commitment to education, and brings valuable experience from both UK and international contexts.

At Hartpury, Gill taught and researched in the area of organisational behaviour and personal development and led University business curriculum areas and short professional development provision. She has also worked with a range of international education providers, supporting transnational partnerships and talent development programmes across Europe and Asia. She is currently working with a long term client in the US tech sector.

Her wider portfolio includes public, private and third-sector collaborations, commercial and cultural change management, and involvement in national steering groups and bid consortia. Gill is known for her ability to build strong relationships, deliver results, and navigate complex organisational structures with clarity and purpose.

Martyn joined the Corporation on 5 December 2024 and his background is in finance. After a degree in Natural Sciences, he qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Touche Ross (now Deloitte) in Bristol. He subsequently qualified as a Corporate Treasurer and obtained an MBA. He has worked in a variety of finance roles in a number of public and private companies across several sectors. He currently works as a consultant.

He has a wide range of national and local not-for-profit governance experience, including as Chair of Elim Housing, President of the Association of Corporate Treasurers, as finance trustee of Lilian Faithfull Care and Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum and as a member of the audit committee of Clare College, Cambridge.

Carl heralds from Gloucester and is an accountant by trade who joined the Corporation on 1 November 2024. Having attained a degree in Accountancy Studies, he qualified with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants in 1991. Carl achieved Fellowship status with CIMA in 2022.

During his career, he has worked in various industries, including construction, telecoms, and engineering. He is currently the Group Finance Director for a family-owned business headquartered in Stroud, Howard Tenens Limited, which provides commercial warehousing facilities and logistics solutions across the UK.

Carl is also qualified as a Chartered Director and a Fellow of the Institute of Directors.