A NEW leader of Bradford College has been appointed by its board to lead the higher education institution in the next chapter of its story.

Chris Webb has been announced as the college’s new chief executive, and will spearhead the college’s development and continue its progress towards financial security.

Mr Webb has more than 20 years of experience in the education sector, in a number of leadership roles across the country.

He will join Bradford College in the Spring from the Outstanding-rated Barnsley College, where he is currently chief executive and principal, and has served in those roles since September 2015.

He succeeds the current interim chief executive Chris Malish, who has been filling the role since August when the previous chief executive Chris Jones stepped down due to health reasons.

Mr Webb graduated from Canterbury Christ Church College University with a degree in IT and Sports Science, and began teaching in 1997.

During his career he has spent time as deputy principal at South Thames College in Wandsworth, London, and as director of school at Newcastle College on Tyneside.

He joined Barnsley in March 2011 as vice-principal for quality and development, and become deputy principal for finance and development two years later, before taking up his current role in 2015.

Mr Webb said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to take on the challenge of driving Bradford College’s development and making sure it meets the needs of students, staff, stakeholders, business and the regional and national economy.

“The role presented such an exciting opportunity that I just couldn’t turn it down, however, the decision to leave Barnsley College wasn’t an easy one.

“I’ve been incredibly lucky to work at Barnsley College for the past eight years and it has been a great honour for me to lead such a fantastic organisation for the last three. I will certainly miss everyone at the College.

“I am now looking forward to getting to know the talented and dedicated staff at Bradford College and building on the momentum created by Chris Jones and Chris Malish.”

Cath Orange, chair of governors at Bradford College, added: “Chris has a wealth of experience and expertise to offer and the corporation is delighted to have secured the appointment of a successful leader who is held in high regard within the sector.

“We couldn’t be happier that he is coming to lead Bradford College at a crucial time as we continue on our journey to financial recovery.

“He will be key to helping us achieve our aim of becoming a financially sustainable college that provides an excellent student experience and delivers outstanding outcomes for learners that benefit the local economy and community.

“Thanks to the significant work led by Chris Jones and Chris Malish the College is making good progress with its Strategic Recovery Plan. Chris Webb is the ideal person to continue our move in the right direction.”

With the arrival of Mr Webb, Chris Malish will resume his role as director of finance and corporate services.

One of Mr Webb’s first major tasks will be tackling the financial problems that exist at the college. In March, it was revealed that last December the Government had to bail out the College to the sum of £3 million.

Teachers at the college also went on strike for two days last week over pay, another issue that will need resolving urgently.