College appoints new member to its Senior Leadership Team

Hopwood Hall College and University Centre has appointed the newest member of its Senior Leadership Team. 

Joanne Taylor assumed the role of Executive Director for Business Development, Apprentices and Future Skills at the beginning of the spring term in January 2023.

Bringing a wealth of expertise to the position, Joanne has more than 25 years’ experience in Further Education.

Most recently she was the Group Director – Apprenticeships and Training at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group. She has also held roles at numerous other institutions, including Manchester College and Bolton College. 

At Hopwood, which has campuses in Middleton and Rochdale, North Manchester, Joanne will be responsible for ensuring that the college’s employer partners are at the heart of the curriculum offer so that learners are able to obtain the most in-demand skillsets. 

These partnerships will further establish the strong talent pipeline in which employers have access to the best individuals needed to galvanize success for their businesses.  

Joanne’s appointment comes at an exciting time for both the borough and for Hopwood Hall.

The college is strategically placed to play a vital part in providing the skilled workforce needed for numerous projects and developments happening across Greater Manchester, including the creation of Atom Valley. 

Julia Heap, Principal and CEO of Hopwood Hall College and University Centre, said: 

“We are delighted to welcome Joanne Taylor into the exciting new role of Executive Director for Business Development, Apprentices and Future Skills.

“At Hopwood we pride ourselves on working closely with employers to ensure that we’re equipping learners with the sought-after skills needed to gain employment and contribute to the economy of the borough.

“Joanne shares our ambitious vision for the region and her vast experience means that she’s in the perfect position to strengthen our existing employer partnerships and create new ones.”

Joanne Taylor, Executive Director for Business Development, Apprentices and Future Skills, said: 

“I’m thrilled to be joining a college that has such a staunch record for tackling skills gaps and preparing students for meaningful employment. 

“Hopwood Hall works with so many amazing employers and I’m looking forward to building on these relationships to cement further success for the region.

“There are a number of significant projects recently launched within the district that will result in real impact in terms of the skills and levelling up agendas, and I am keen to ensure the college is at the heart of these initiatives.

“Rochdale and the surrounding areas are such an incredible place to live and work – something I know first-hand as a Middleton resident.

“It’s my goal to make sure the borough keeps achieving its potential by ensuring that the talented workforce of tomorrow meets the needs of our brilliant local employers.”

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