University of Sunderland’s Sir David Bell appointed Vice Chair of Skills England

Published on 10, February, 2025

Sir David Bell, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Sunderland, has been appointed as the Vice Chair of Skills England.

The newly established national body has been tasked with addressing the country’s skills needs and preparing the workforce for the demands of the modern economy.

Speaking about his appointment, which he will manage alongside his Vice-Chancellor’s duties in Sunderland, Sir David said: “I am delighted to have been asked by the Secretary of State for Education to become the Vice Chair of Skills England.

“This new body will play a vital role in identifying national skills needs for now and the future. I am particularly looking forward to working with national and regional partners – including elected mayors – to ensure that the right training opportunities and qualifications are in place.

“For the first time, a proper skills infrastructure is being created to ensure that our economy and our people are equipped so that we can thrive, prosper and grow as a nation. Therefore, it is a great honour to be involved at the outset as Skills England begins its work.”

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The appointment reflects Sir David’s extensive leadership experience and background in education and public service. His career spans key roles such as Permanent Secretary at the Department for Education and Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Schools in England, as well as senior positions in local government and schools, including in the north-east.

As part of his role, Sir David will support the Chair of Skills England in providing strategic leadership to the organisation so that it achieves its objectives. These include:

• developing a comprehensive picture of the nation’s current and future skills needs;
• ensuring the availability of training opportunities, apprenticeships, and technical qualifications to address skills gaps and meet employer requirements; and
• collaborating with regional and national partners, including elected mayors, to address skills challenges and deliver a cohesive skills infrastructure.

In addition, Sir David’s nearly fourteen years’ experience as a university vice-chancellor, first at the University of Reading and now in Sunderland, will be key in providing insight and guidance on the vital role that higher education can play, alongside others, in developing skills.