South West College is highlighting an opportunity to apply for the position of Chair of its Governing Body, following the launch of a public appointment competition by the Department for the Economy.

The Chair plays a key strategic leadership role within the College, working with the Governing Body, Principal and senior leadership team to provide effective governance and strategic oversight.

South West College operates across campuses in Cookstown, Dungannon, Enniskillen and Omagh, supporting thousands of learners and employers across the region. The College plays an important role in providing professional, technical and academic education and training, supporting learners, employers, communities and the wider economy.

About the role

The Chair will provide strategic leadership to the Governing Body and help shape the College's medium- to long-term strategic direction.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Providing effective leadership to the Governing Body and ensuring it operates cohesively.
  • Supporting good governance, accountability and effective risk management.
  • Providing support and constructive challenge to the Principal and senior management.
  • Providing oversight of the College's financial and operational performance.
  • Helping ensure the College's education and skills provision meets the needs of learners, employers and the wider community.
  • Representing the College in meetings with the Economy Minister, senior officials and other stakeholders.
  • Working collaboratively with Chairs and colleagues across Northern Ireland's further education sector.

The appointment is normally for four years, with the possibility of consideration for one further term, subject to the relevant requirements and satisfactory performance. The expected time commitment is approximately one day per week, including Governing Body meetings and other College and Department for the Economy business.

Who can apply?

Applicants do not need to have a background in further education or hold specific academic qualifications.

The Department is seeking candidates who can demonstrate experience in:

Leadership – strategic leadership of a business, voluntary, community or public sector organisation and a track record of delivering results.

Corporate governance, accountability and risk management – applying governance, financial and risk management principles and demonstrating accountability for organisational decisions.

Problem solving – analysing complex information and making evidence-based decisions in challenging environments.

Collaboration – building constructive relationships and effective networks with stakeholders and partners.

Key application information

Position: Chair, South West College Governing Body
Appointment: Four-year term, with potential for a further term
Time commitment: Approximately one day per week
Remuneration: £20,000 per annum
Closing date: 12 noon (GMT), Thursday 8 October 2026

How to apply

Full details of the role, including the candidate information booklet, selection criteria and application process, are available from the Department for the Economy.

Apply online: Online Application Form

Candidate Information Booklet: Candidate Information Booklet

Department for the Economy appointment information: Appointment of Chairs to the Governing Bodies of NRC, SERC, SWC & SRC

Applicants are encouraged to read the Candidate Information Booklet carefully before completing their application. Applications must be submitted by 12 noon on Thursday 8 October 2026.

For queries about the application process, contact the Department for the Economy's Public Appointments Unit on 028 9052 9461 or email pau@economy-ni.gov.uk.