Building college’s long-serving principal announces retirement
THE PRINCIPAL of Leeds College of Building has announced his intention to retire after 22 years at the institution.
Ian Billyard, a former building surveyor, has been CEO and principal since March 2003 following his internal promotion from the position of deputy principal which he held since April 1996. He will have been employed at the college for more than 22 years when he retires.
He said: “It has been an enormous privilege to have worked with such an outstanding team of staff and governors. During this time the college has changed considerably; both in response to industry and the FE sector and I feel it’s in great shape for the future.”
He added: “It is always difficult to make such a big decision, especially when you enjoy the job as much as I do, but I feel that stepping down now provides me with the opportunity to do other things and for the college to embrace the next stage in its development.”
He started his working life as a mining surveyor with English China Clays and his education career began at Darlington College of Technology.
Andrew Iveson, chairman of governors, said: “Ian has led the college through some challenging periods whilst developing the curriculum and business base. This has enabled us to maintain independence as the only specialist construction college in the country.
“His leadership and strategic planning has ensured that the college is in the right places to influence national and local developments in construction and FE, whilst driving operational and financial performance that has resulted in the college being in a strong position going forward.
“The board are grateful to him for all his hard work in supporting students to achieve their aspirations – and stakeholders to engage with us – to ensure that the construction sector is supported and developed in the Leeds City Region and beyond.”
He will retire in December and a selection committee will oversee recruitment for a successor.