Parker has been BDT’s Director of Operations for the last two years and has now taken over the role from Peter Mitchell, who is entering retirement.

The BDT was set up by Lord Baker and Lord Dearing, supporting colleges that distinctively serve:

• 14-19 year olds

• Colleges sponsored by Universities and local employers

• Colleges whose curriculums are formed and overlooked by these local employers

The government has announced that these specialist colleges will, in two years, increase from an existing 15 to 34.

Lord Baker, the chairman of BDT, said: "I would like to thank Peter Mitchell for his support and unwavering commitment to developing the UTC network. His enthusiasm and leadership have been integral to the success of the UTC movement across the country. We wish him well in his retirement.

"I am also delighted to welcome Charles Parker who will become CEO during what is proving an exciting time for the organisation. His wealth of experience will provide strong leadership for BDT."

Parker has worked in the corporate finance, property development and industrial strategy industries, and his most recent role saw him working as an Academies Advisor to PfS for two years, ending in 2010.

He said: "I am delighted to have the chance to succeed Peter Mitchell. BDT has moved at an extraordinary pace since launching in 2009. Following the announcements this week of new University Technical Colleges opening across the country, I am very much looking forward to working with our team to develop the UTC programme which offers high quality, high status technical education."

Natasha Spencer