Gateshead College makes double appointment

Gateshead College has strengthened its senior management team with the appointment of two assistant principals.

Deni Chambers will lead a number of curriculum areas including digital tech, while Suzanne Slater will be the strategic lead for the delivery of apprenticeship programmes.

In their new roles they will build on the college’s long track record of providing the highest quality training which gives students the skills, confidence and business acumen needed for a successful career. 

Deni brings experience in change management and senior leadership in the creative and digital sectors, having previously headed up the School of Creative & Digital Industries at Newcastle College.

She also sits on the advisory board of the regional tech steering group, Dynamo North East, and is a governor at the Excelsior Academy in Newcastle.

Meanwhile, Suzanne joins Gateshead College having worked within the education and training industry for over a decade as a regional manager for NECC Training and more recently at Northern Skills Group, the commercial training arm of Middlesbrough College.

She has also worked in management roles for telecoms giant BT and recruitment firm Reed, and brings a wealth of experience in employer engagement, account management and partnership development.

Suzanne said: “It’s great to be working at an organisation that puts employability at the centre of everything it does – an ethos I really buy into. At Gateshead College, students get the chance to gain valuable skills and relevant work experience throughout their course which will really benefit them and their employer when it comes to getting a job.

“I’m also looking forward to working with employers to support their workforce development programmes and making sure we continue to build and develop an offer and service which meets their needs.”

Deni said: “Digital tech is the fastest growing sector in our region and Gateshead itself is right at the forefront of emerging technology and innovation.

“We are perfectly placed to support the region’s ambitions, addressing skills gaps and developing a curriculum that provides a steady stream of skilled and talented individuals into the sector. Gateshead College is forward-thinking and responsive and I am excited to work for an organisation that puts employers at the heart of its curriculum design.”

Judith Doyle CBE, principal and chief executive of Gateshead College, said:

“I’m delighted to welcome these two brilliant professionals to our senior management team. We were seeking individuals who can inspire, lead, encourage and influence and Deni and Suzanne most certainly possess these vital qualities.

“I’m confident that, with them on board, we can continue to deliver programmes that ensure our students are the most highly prized in the jobs market.”