Phil Sayles is to be the new Principal and Chief Executive Officer of The Bournemouth & Poole College.

He takes up the post in January 2022 following the retirement of Diane Grannell.

Phil has enjoyed a successful career in further education, working at many different levels within college settings.

He said: “I started in further education as a part-time tutor and worked my way up through curriculum leadership and Director roles at Grimsby College and Lincoln College, experienced wider aspects of college leadership as Deputy Principal at Rotherham College and am currently Principal and Chief Executive at Selby College in Yorkshire.

“I’m excited and proud that I will lead the [Bournemouth & Poole] college at an important time, when technical skills for work or further study are vital to local people of all ages.

“The college has a pivotal role in training the workforce of the future in key sectors such as engineering, health, digital, business, construction and many others.

“It already works with over a thousand employers and stakeholders, providing apprenticeship training and other training.

“I bring experience to help it do even more in this field, so it can help fuel company growth and recovery from the pandemic.

“I have spent most of my life living and working in the Midlands and North and am now at a point in life where we can move to, live in and explore the beautiful area of the country that Bournemouth & Poole College is set within.”

David Ford, The College’s Chair of the Corporation, said: “Phil demonstrates a huge passion for learning, forward vision and commitment to the highest quality of teaching.

“We are confident that Phil’s experience and skills will lead us on the next part of our journey to outstanding.”

Diane Grannell, the current Principal and CEO of The College, pictured, said, “Although it is with a heavy heart that I am leaving The Bournemouth & Poole College, I am pleased to hear that I am leaving its leadership in such capable hands.

“I wish Phil all the best for his new role and hope to see The College continue growing and developing in the coming years.

“I’m planning on working closely with Phil over the next six months to ensure he has everything in place for his new position.”

• Read our 20 Questions with Diane here.