College group appoints three to governing board

Nelson and Colne College Group has strengthened its governing board with the appointment of three accomplished industry leaders.

The new appointees are Melissa Conlon, commercial director of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) North West, Helen Curtis, the former deputy chief officer and director of quality and performance at Chorley and South Ribble and Greater Preston Clinical Commissioning Groups, and Helen McVey, chief executive of Pendleside Hospice.

Phil Wilkinson, chair of the corporation for the group, said: "I am delighted to have such outstanding knowledge and experience joining what is already a very strong team.

"It is important to us that we ensure our governing board remains industry-focused, and can continue to bring relevant and up-to-date knowledge to our decision-making processes. These appointments will further strengthen our ability to support all our learners to develop the very best skills and knowledge, aligned to industry needs, meaning they can go on to shape the industries in which they choose to progress." 

Melissa Conlon has an extensive background in information technology and advanced manufacturing, having previously held national and international roles for GE and BNP Paribas, as well as having worked in both FE Colleges and Universities in Lancashire.

She said: "I have always been passionate about supporting the growth and success of the advanced manufacturing sector and championing education and skills to make a critical contribution to that ongoing ambition, and this role enables me to keep doing just that.” 

Helen Curtis (pictured) holds a wealth of knowledge and expertise in health, developed through her extensive career of over 40 years as a senior leader in the NHS, in several executive, board and clinically focussed roles.

Helen said she is “excited to bring her executive leadership skills in quality improvement, performance and safeguarding to the group, and delighted to be able to support the college group to further ensure learners develop the skills and qualities needed for their success, and by the NHS, both now and in the future.” 

Helen McVey is passionate about the need to join up health and social care agendas and support young people and adults to develop the skills to have a successful and rewarding career in health and social care.

She said: “I am delighted to have taken up this position, and working with NCCG yet again, having already taken up the role as an enterprise adviser here at the college group where I champion careers information and guidance.

"I am incredibly proud to be able to use my knowledge and experience to ensure the NCCG team continue to inspire and prepare adults and young people for the fast-changing world of work.” 

Nelson and Colne College Group comprises Nelson and Colne College, Accrington and Rossendale College and Lancashire Adult Learning.