New Corporation Chair appointed

A Walsall business owner and former deputy principal has been appointed as Walsall College’s Chair of Corporation.

David Wheeler takes over from Alan Woods OBE, following his six years’ service with the Corporation.

David previously enjoyed a career in engineering at Birmingham Mint Group, JLR and IMI Ltd and then worked for many years at the College, including spending time as finance director.  He joined the Corporation in March 2019 and became Chair in October 2022.

Commenting on the appointment, Principal and Chief Executive, Jatinder Sharma OBE said: “The Corporation is delighted to be working even more closely with David to implement our strategic goals around skills development, economic growth, digital innovation and sustainability.

He continued: “Thanks go to our outgoing chair, Alan for his friendship and dedication to the college in recent years.  Through his legacy and David’s considerable cross-sector experience, we will continue to drive and develop our shared values and ambitions for the Walsall area and beyond.”

David said: “In representing and supporting the college in a variety of ways, I have long admired our track record of raising learners’ aspirations and meeting local skills needs.  I am passionate about highlighting our students’ achievements in terms of distance travelled, whether that’s into higher levels of study, employment or improved career prospects.

“As Chair, I look forward to celebrating many more of these success stories with students and staff.  I am extremely proud of our students, dedicated staff and excellent college facilities.

“I also hope to provide a different perspective and add value to our relationships with our employer and community partners, while of course giving something back to a community I am proud to be a part of.”

Charlotte Bosworth, Managing Director of Innovate Awarding, remains as vice chair following her appointment to this role in November 2021.