Skills Funding Agency promotes Kim Thorneywork to interim chief executive

The Skills Funding Agency has promoted Kim Thorneywork, previously its executive director of delivery, to interim chief executive.

Thorneywork replaces Geoff Russell, who is retiring after holding the position since April 2010.

Announcing the news, Skills Minister John Hayes said: “I am delighted that Kim Thorneywork has accepted the position of interim chief executive. Her wealth of experience in the sector and extensive knowledge of the Skills Funding Agency will be a valuable asset in this role.”

Departing CEO Geoff Russell said: “This is tremendous, affirmative news for the Skills Funding Agency and the sector. I am confident that Kim, along with the rest of the Executive Management Team, will help enable the sector to take FE to new levels of excellence.”

Thorneywork has an impressive CV, which has spanned a career in various further education positions. Having first worked as a deputy head teacher at a Technology College and then as an area director for the Learning and Skills Council, she has most recently filled the roles of senior accounts director for the Skills Funding Agency, and lastly as its executive director of delivery.

Thorneywork commented: “Taking the Skills Funding Agency forward will be a privilege. I am delighted to accept the role of interim chief executive and I’d like to thank the Minister for putting his trust in my leadership.”

Natasha Spencer

(Pictured: interim chief executive Kim Thorneywork)