Helen Sharpe Assistant Principal – Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement, London South East Colleges Start date: May 2024 Previous Job: Operations Director – Apprenticeships, South Essex Colleges Group Interesting fact: Helen has been passionate about apprenticeships since completing her own (in hairdressing) around 27 years ago. Having worked in apprenticeships for South Essex College over the last 20 years, Helen is excited to star her new role and bring that passion to LSEC. Graham Knott Operations Director, HIT Training Start date: February 2024 Previous Job: Business Operations Director, Professional Assessment Ltd Interesting fact: Graham loves the great outdoors and photography. He can often be spotted on remote Lakeland fells with his flask and camera. Graham also recently acquired his purple belt in Shorai martial arts and is continuing to work towards black belt. Ben Ward Vice Chair, Hopwood Hall College and University Centre Start date: July 2024 Concurrent Job: CEO, University of Manchester Students’ Union Interesting fact: Through his role at University of Manchester Students’ Union and as the Managing Director for Manchester Academy Venues, Ben leads a staff team of 90 full-time and 350 part-time staff with the organisation having a turnover of £8.5million.