Following a rigorous recruitment process, the College Board of Management selected Derek to bring his extensive experience and expertise to the role. Derek is currently vice-principal for curriculum, planning & performance at New College Lanarkshire.
Derek will succeed Alan Sherry, who is set to retire in the summer following a 32-year career in further education, as principal and chief executive of one of Scotland’s most accessible and community-focused colleges.
Derek’s early working life began with 15 years’ service in the Royal Air Force and as an avionics development engineer with Marconi Avionics.
A graduate of the University of Stirling and the Open University, he began his 19-year career in further education as a lecturer in engineering, progressing to curriculum manager, head of faculty and then senior management.
Derek’s life was changed by his first year in the classroom. A challenging year but one that ignited his passion for learning and teaching and instilled a pride in an education sector which gives everyone a chance to change their lives.
Ian Patrick, Glasgow Kelvin College Board of Management chair, said: “We were particularly impressed with Derek’s commitment to and enthusiasm for the ethos, values and vision of the college and we are confident that he is the right person to build on the College’s current successes and lead it through its next stage of development.
“We look forward to welcoming Derek to the Kelvin family.”
Janie McCusker, Glasgow Colleges’ Regional Board chair, said: “I am very pleased that Derek has been appointed to this important role at Glasgow Kelvin College. The extensive skills and experience he brings will play a significant role in achieving the ambitions of the Glasgow Colleges’ Regional Board.”
Derek Smeall said: “It is a great privilege to be given the opportunity to become Glasgow Kelvin College’s new principal and chief executive.
“I am very proud to be joining such an exceptional College with its outstanding record of delivering accessible, life-changing education to the people and communities of Glasgow and Scotland. I am excited about our future and look forward to working together with stakeholders, staff and learners in shaping our continuing success.”
It is anticipated that Derek will take up his post on August 1, 2019.
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