David Russell appointed Education and Training Foundation CEO

The Education and Training Foundation has appointed its first permanent chief executive and chair as the government pledges to support its drive to raise standards across FE for a further three years.

David Russell, a policy director at the Department for Education and a governor at Central Sussex College, has been appointed CEO of the group, formerly known as the FE Guild.

Its chair will be Paul Mullins, chairman of the government’s Industrial Development Advisory Board and a former banker.

Skills Minister Mathew Hancock said: “I am delighted with today’s appointments which provide the Education and Training Foundation with the vision, credibility and authority to provide real sector-wide leadership.

“The Government is committed to the long term success of The Foundation. The Foundation will have an essential role strengthening the education and training workforce, including English and maths teaching, and strengthening the leadership, governance and accountability of the whole sector. The
Foundation has exceptionally strong leadership and I’m sure will play a vital role in the years ahead.”

The appointments were welcomed by Toni Fazaeli, chief executive of the Institute for Learning (IfL), the professional body for teachers and trainers and part of the steering group for the Foundation.

“We are pleased to note that David Russell is a qualified teacher and has taught in secondary schools, so as well as many years’ experience in education policymaking, including in further education and adult skills, he brings personal experience of teaching and its importance,” she said.

“Paul Mullins, with his commercial background and expertise, will offer a valuable business and economic perspective to the work of the Foundation.

Natalie Thornhill