Andy Sparks

Andy is an experienced senior leader, with a background in further education.

He has 30 years of experience in further and higher education and is a former Principal of a General Further Education College in Essex.

After starting as a new blood lecturer at Suffolk College in 1995 he progressed through the ranks, becoming a Senior Teaching Practitioner. Andy’s managerial career began at Otley College where he took up the post of Curriculum Manager of Technology and latterly Director of Business Services before joining Writtle College as Head of Further Education. In 2014 he became Principal and CEO of Chelmsford College where he successfully led the organisation for eight years. His most recent appointment was as Executive Director of the Essex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for Essex Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

Andy originally trained as an auto electrician in Ipswich and is still active within the sector through his ongoing involvement with the Institute of the Motor Industry. Andy's wider interests include scouting, canoeing and surfing.

Details of Trusteeships:

• Suffolk New College – Co-opted member of Academic Standards & Quality Committee