Nelson and Colne College Group (NCCG), comprising Nelson and Colne College, Accrington and Rossendale College, and Lancashire Adult Learning, has bolstered its Governing board with the appointment of 3 new Governors, all of whom are leaders within their field.
Melissa Conlon, Commercial Director of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) North West, Helen Curtis, the former Deputy Chief Officer and Director of Quality and Performance at Chorley and South Ribble and Greater Preston Clinical Commissioning Groups, and Helen McVey, Chief Executive of Pendleside Hospice, all joined the board last month, as it looks to further strengthen the outstanding position that NCCG holds within the region.
Following the appointments, Phil Wilkinson, Chair of the Corporation at NCCG, said; “I am delighted to have such outstanding knowledge and experience joining what is already a very strong team. It is important to us that we ensure our Governing Board remains industry-focused, and can continue to bring relevant and up-to-date knowledge to our decision-making processes. These appointments come at a pivotal time for us with our ongoing Strategic Review process and will further strengthen our ability to support all our learners to develop the very best skills and knowledge, aligned to industry needs, meaning they can go on to shape the industries in which they choose to progress. Bringing industry expertise on board, via Helen, Melissa and Helen we can ensure our Governing Body continues to challenge the teams at NCCG to deliver the very best curriculum offer and experience for our communities.”
The experience that the new appointees bring to the Group is phenomenal, and as individuals each has an impressive career history.
Melissa Conlon has an extensive background in information technology and advanced manufacturing, having previously held national and international roles for GE and BNP Paribas, as well as having worked in both FE Colleges and Universities in Lancashire. Speaking about her appointment Melissa said, “I have always been passionate about supporting the growth and success of the advanced manufacturing sector and championing education and skills to make a critical contribution to that ongoing ambition, and this role enables me to keep doing just that.”
Helen Curtis’ wealth of knowledge and expertise in health has been developed through her extensive career of over 40 years as a senior leader in the NHS, in several executive, Board and clinically focussed roles. Helen is “excited to bring her executive leadership skills in quality improvement, performance and safeguarding to the Group, and delighted to be able to support the College Group to further ensure learners develop the skills and qualities needed for their success, and by the NHS, both now and in the future.”
Helen McVey is passionate about the need to join up health and social care agendas and support young people and adults to develop the skills to have a successful and rewarding career in health and social care. Helen said, “I am delighted to have taken up this position, and working with NCCG yet again, having already taken up the role as an Enterprise Adviser here at the College Group where I champion careers information and guidance. I am incredibly proud to be able to use my knowledge and experience to ensure the NCCG team
continue to inspire and prepare adults and young people for the fast-changing world of work.”
Speaking after the appointments Lisa O’Loughlin, Principal and CEO of Nelson and Colne College Group, said “I am thrilled to welcome Melissa, Helen and Helen, as each brings with them a wealth of expertise that will undoubtedly have a positive impact on our college. Collectively and individually their industry knowledge will be invaluable in helping us shape and implement our future strategy. Our aim at NCCG is always to provide learners with the best skills and knowledge aligned with industry needs, and these new appointments will only strengthen that commitment. I am excited about the positive impact the new Governors will have on our learners and communities, and their addition to the team reinforces our ambition for the future”.
