Burton and South Derbyshire College welcomes new Patron for International Operations

Experienced international business professional Shaun Gray is set to inspire students at Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) as their new Patron of International Operations.

The College has enlisted Shaun, European Managing Director of Ginho Group, as its latest patron to join the College’s impressive list of patrons across its broad range of areas.

BSDC’s network of patrons mean that students benefit from an industry-led curriculum, access to key industry contacts and the opportunity to work on live briefs for real companies. This supports the College in delivering its Skills Promise and ensuring that when students complete their course, they will be job ready with the transferable skills and qualities they need to make an impact in their chosen industry or profession.

Shaun previously studied Engineering at Burton and South Derbyshire College, leading to an HNC in Engineering. After completing his Technical Apprenticeship at William Cook Cast Products, Shaun has held a range of senior positions within international businesses including Sheffield Forgemasters International, MetalTek International and Yonghe Europe Ltd (now Ginho Group).

Shaun is now European Managing Director at Ginho Group and President of the Burton and District Chamber of Commerce. He has a passion for international travel, understanding different cultures and doing business on a global scale.

Shaun said: “I am really excited about working with the College on this remit. International trading is a key focus for Ginho – working globally while delivering locally – and so I can’t wait to get involved with the next generation of global workers. I am sure this patronage will be hugely beneficial to my own personal development as well as, hopefully, the students!”

Meanwhile, Burton and South Derbyshire College has got a reputation for being a ‘global college’ and was recently shortlisted in the British Council International Award category of the AoC Beacon Awards. Additionally, College Chief Executive and Principal, Dawn Ward CBE is Chair of the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics. International work is embedded into the wider college ‘system’ which has seen international learners become part of the fabric of the organisation. The College’s Skills Promise has globalisation at its core and learners have opportunities to become International Ambassadors and take advantage of international experiences during their studies, including trips to South Korea in recent years.

John Beaty, Deputy Principal of Burton and South Derbyshire College, added: “We’re delighted to have Shaun joining our network of patrons. Shaun brings with him a wealth of experience in international business and will be an extremely inspirational figure for our learners who are just starting out in their careers. Our international work is incredibly important to us as it not only provides learners from throughout the world with excellent learning experiences but it also allows our domestic learners to gain valuable insights into other world cultures, broadening their global outlook and adding value to their future career prospects.”