Public appointment: Chair appointed to North East Scotland College Board

The Minister for Higher Education, Further Education, Youth Employment and Training today announced the appointment of Susan Elston as Chair of the North East Scotland College Board.

Chair

Susan Elston has held several senior leadership positions over the course of a 30-year career in industry, latterly as Senior Vice president Energy and Resources – Sodexo. A former Institute of Directors Female Director of the Year, Susan holds extensive experience at non-exec board / trustee level in a range of organisations, having been Chair of Aberdeen Foyer and one of the first female Board Members of Oil and Gas UK. A NESCol Board member since 2018, Susan brings sector, region and industry knowledge along with skills in governance, risk management, change management with a passion for education and lifelong learning.

Appointment

This appointment will be for two years and will run from 1 November 2022 to 31 October 2024.

This appointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration

This appointment is part-time and attracts a remuneration of £265 for a time commitment of two days per week.

Other ministerial appointments

Susan Elston does not hold any other public appointments.

Political activity

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process.  However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public.   

Susan Elston has had no political activity within the last five years.

Background

As the sole Further Education College in the North East of Scotland, NESCol operates from three main campuses (City and Altens in Aberdeen and Fraserburgh) and a network of regional centres which includes a presence in Ellon, Inverurie and Peterhead, where the Scottish Maritime Academy is based.

An engaging, supportive and inclusive learning environment is at the heart of the NESCol experience, designed to give every student the opportunity to fulfil their potential in employment and in life. The College’s flexible and accessible courses are responsive to the needs of both employers and the communities the College serves.

NESCol is integral to realising the ambitions of the region and is recognised for its commitment to shaping the workforce of the future, proud of its role in the evolution of traditional industries and excited by the opportunities presented by new and emerging sectors including energy transition and digital.

The College is a key member of social, economic and educational groups in the North East. This includes playing an active role of Community Planning Partnerships, of the Regional Economic Strategy Group and a range of collaborations with the Robert Gordon University, the University of Aberdeen and skills development agencies to work towards a vibrant future for the region .