Darren Crossley, Deputy Chief Executive of Carlisle City Council has been appointed as Chair of the Carlisle College Board, bringing a wealth of experience and local knowledge.
Darren has worked in local government for over 25 years for Metropolitan and District Councils in Preston, Sheffield, Doncaster, Bedford, Wigan and Lancashire. He first joined Carlisle City Council in 2010, taking up the position of Deputy Chief Executive in 2012 and is responsible for a range of frontline services and partnership development.
Darren replaces the outgoing Chair Patrick McGahon, who has been in the position since 2017.
Darren has been a member of the Carlisle College Board for over 8 years, a time when Carlisle College has continued to prosper with a programme of over £30 million investment. During his time on the Board Darren has also overseen Carlisle College join NCG, one of the largest not-for-profit education and training groups in the UK.
Darren will lead the Board of Carlisle College as it embarks upon continued growth and development. He will be supported by newly appointed Vice Chair Nigel Woodcock who has over 35 years Board level experience across the public sector in both Chief Executive and Non-Executive Director roles. Nigel is currently Managing Director of his own management consultancy company. They and the remainder of the Board, comprising local members, will continue to ensure that the College meets the needs of learners, employers, partners and local communities.
Commenting on his appointment Darren said “I’m excited to be taking up the role of Chair of the Carlisle College Board. I’m passionate about skills development and its paramount importance in providing social opportunity and economic prosperity for Carlisle and the surrounding area. At this crucial time, I am keen to ensure that we help more people progress into successful careers, while helping businesses to secure their future workforce with a pipeline of talented employees.”
Steven Salkeld, Interim Principal at Carlisle College, added “We are delighted with the appointment of Darren to Chair after several years of valuable service to the Board, during which time he has gained a great insight into the College. Combined with his experience and commitment to developing skills in the local area and his knowledge of the county and its economy, he is sure to be a great asset in the continued development of the College.”
