Public appointment: Chair reappointed to the Board of Management of North East Scotland College (Nescol)

The Minister for Higher and Further Education; and Minister for Veterans, today announced the reappointment of Susan Elston as Chair of the Board of Management of North East Scotland College.

Chair

Susan Elston has served on the Board of North East Scotland College since 2018, latterly as Chair. With extensive Board experience in her role as Chair of the Board of Aberdeen Foyer, and formerly as Board Member of Oil & Gas UK (now OEUK), she brings strong expertise in governance. Her extensive business experience in the Oil and Gas sector following a 30-year career is coupled with a commitment to education and community. In addition, she is currently a Board Governor at Robert Gordon University, a board Member of Colleges Scotland and the member of the Executive College Employers Scotland.

Reappointment

This reappointment will be for four years and will run from 1 November 2024 to 31 October 2028.

This reappointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration

This reappointment is part-time and attracts a remuneration of £265 per day 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, North East Scotland College (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 of Scotland. 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.