The Association of Colleges (AoC) has announced Ian Ashman, principal of Hackney Community College, as its President-elect.
Mr Ashman will take over from current president John Widdowson on August 1.
Having begun his career in FE in 1993, Mr Ashman has held a range of college posts across London, and has been a principal for over 13 years.
He has been chair of the AoC London region since 2010 and is also a member of the London Enterprise Panel – Skills and Employment Working Group, leading initiatives, such as the training of the Gamesmaker volunteers for the London 2012 Games.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Ashman said: “I want to help the AoC continue to make the strongest case for the sector during a period of change.
“We need to ensure that colleges have a powerful voice in the coming year, particularly given area reviews, delegation of skills funding and financial pressures, alongside the transition to a new chief executive.
“I am looking forward to travelling around the country to visit colleges whilst working closely with the AoC team, to influence decision makers, to secure the best outcomes for our students, communities and colleges.”
Martin Doel, chief executive of the Association of Colleges, said he welcomed Mr Ashman’s appointment, which will be for a year.
“I know he will be a great asset to AoC and our member colleges at a time of change across the further education sector.
“During this period, our work with government will continue to be of great importance as it looks to drive the development of technical and professional routes to employment in which colleges will play a significant role, just as they do in providing academic education in many areas.”
Mr Widdowson said: “Ian has many years of experience in running colleges and I know he will work tirelessly on behalf of colleges and their students.
“I have enjoyed the experience of being president and I will be leaving the role in more than capable hands.”
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