WorldSkills UK has appointed Marion Plant OBE, the Principal and Chief Executive of North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College, as its new Deputy Chair.
A partnership between business, education and governments, WorldSkills UK is working to change the national conversation so that apprenticeships and technical education are seen as prestigious career routes for all young people, whatever their backgrounds, across the UK.
Marion was previously on the board of WorldSkills London 2011, which hosted the international WorldSkills event known as the ‘Skills Olympics’ in London and has continued to be involved with the organisations which have led to the setting up of WorldSkills UK. Marion replaces Pablo Lloyd, Chief Executive of Activate Apprenticeships, who is stepping down from the WorldSkills UK Board.
Carole Stott MBE, Chair, WorldSkills UK said: “I am delighted to welcome Marion to the role of Deputy Chair. I am confident that her experience and knowledge will continue to be of enormous value to WorldSkills UK as we work to create a new generation of high flyers that will give employers a competitive edge, helping the UK economy to thrive.
“I also want to take this opportunity to thank Pablo Lloyd for his invaluable support and guidance as Deputy Chair over the last two years.”
Marion also serves on several national and regional bodies including as a board member of Coventry University and a trustee of the National Society Council. She has recently completed her term of office as a non-executive director at the Department for Education.
Marion Plant OBE, Deputy Chair, WorldSkills UK said: “I am excited to take up this role and help drive the next stage in the development of WorldSkills UK. I have seen how the work of the organisation can positively impact on a young person’s career and I am committed to ensure more young people and their colleges, training providers and employers, from all over the UK, continue to benefit.”
Marion will also be taking on the role of UK Official Delegate on an interim basis and in time for EuroSkills Budapest 2018. This role was previously held by Peter Lauener before his retirement from the ESFA.
