Deputy Principal – Business Services | Highlands College 

What does a typical day look like for you? 

My typical day is varied and demands adaptability. I might need to manage a disciplinary issue, collaborate with staff to address financial matters, give occupational health and safety advice, or navigate the intricacies of administrative tasks. I also find myself engaging with a range of stakeholders, responding to political questions, and contributing to the strategic direction of the college. Every day presents new opportunities for problem-solving and contributing to the overall success of Highlands College.

What career path have you had, that has given you the knowledge for your current role? 

During my 25 years as a Royal Engineer, I travelled the globe in both peacekeeping and war-fighting environments.  These experiences instilled in me resilience, adaptability, and a powerful sense of loyalty: qualities that have proven to be invaluable.

After my time with the British Army I settled in Jersey, where I became the Head of Facilities and Projects with the States of Jersey Police. There I played a pivotal role as the client lead for the award-winning construction of the current Police HQ & Custody Suites.  I developed a deep understanding of project management, strategic planning, and the effective coordination of resources.

These skills and experiences combined make me uniquely qualified for my role as Deputy Principal of Highlands College where I need to lead a multi-disciplined team with empathy and efficiency. 

What are the most important skills needed for your role/job?

To ensure the smooth operation and continuous improvement of business services within the college, a multifaceted skill set is instrumental: a blend of good leadership, communication, financial acumen, adaptability, and strategic thinking, combined with interpersonal and project management capabilities are essential.

Are there any future skills you will need to learn for your role? 

The world is changing, and the educational landscape is evolving with it. I have a responsibility to identify and champion future skills, to embrace lifelong learning, and to ensure that the college is appropriately equipped to support our community.  Digital literacy, data analytics, and cybersecurity are all areas that have become more significant to my role in recent years. Advocating for a sustainable future is imperative, and so this is a particular area of focus for me. 

What is the best part of your job? / What motivates you in this role?

People. Everything at Highlands College is done with our students and our local community at the core. I am also incredibly fortunate to work alongside some great people. Not only are my colleagues professional and diligent, but they also infuse a sense of camaraderie into our work, making each day both purposeful and enjoyable.

What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession?

Expect the unexpected: resilience and problem solving are key.  Cultivate strong leadership and communication skills. Embrace continuous learning to adapt to evolving educational landscapes. Develop a deep understanding of fiscal management and be tech-savvy. Surround yourself with a collaborative team, valuing professionalism and a sense of camaraderie. Most importantly, appreciate the transformative power of education and prioritise a student-centric approach. 

What is on your bucket list and why?

Top of my bucket list is riding the California Highway on a Harley. Embracing the freedom of the open road, it’s a reminder to never waste a precious day.