| New Head of Education is appointed by East Lothian Council | | Print | |
| Written by Jane Ogden Smith |
| Tuesday, 29 June 2010 18:35 |
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Dr Richard Jennings is to be East Lothian Council’s new Head of Education, replacing Maureen Jobson, who retires at this July. He is currently a Senior Public Service Improvement Manager with KPMG and has wide-ranging experience in helping public service organisations to improve their performance and adapt to changing circumstances. Richard was selected from a very strong field of candidates, following a very rigorous independent recruitment process, delivered by SOLACE. He has been actively involved with the public sector in Scotland for nearly ten years. As a partnership manager in Dumfries and Galloway, he was deeply involved with community planning and the development of public services. In his time at the Scottish Government Fast Stream, he developed a strong understanding of the mechanisms of government as a key member of delivery teams within the Office of the Permanent Secretary. Over the last five years, Richard has developed strong relationships as an adviser to senior managers and elected members across Scotland and the UK as they seek to transform public services. Over the last two years, he has worked on major change programmes across Children's and Education services with local authorities in Scotland, an area where he has developed a strong understanding and demonstrated a real commitment. Richard recently worked with the current Head of Education Maureen Jobson as adviser to the Education and Children’s Services Service Review and Redesign team. Richard Jennings says:
‘From my very first job in the early ’90s, as the development officer for the Devon Youth Council, I have had a very strong interest in providing the best platform for young people to make a difference in their lives. I see this role as a way of bringing my knowledge and understanding of the public sector to bear on an area that is important to me and to the future of East Lothian and Scotland. ‘The difference that education can make to the lives of young people and their communities should never be underestimated and I am excited to be involved in developing our Education service in East Lothian. East Lothian Council has a strong education service, from its schools to its central support team and I am looking forward to working with each and every one of them.’ Executive Director of Education and Children Services Don Ledingham says:
‘Richard impressed throughout the recruitment process where his analytical skills, driven by a sound intellect, allowed him to focus on the needs of the organisation, the needs of individuals – and most importantly the needs of children and young people. Our Young People’s Panel, who were part of the interview process, were very impressed by him.’ Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Children’s Services Peter MacKenzie adds:
‘Richard does not come to the post through a "traditional" route but we believe that he will bring an essential skill mix and perspective to our work and also provide significant support to headteachers to help them to meet the challenges we will be facing over the next few years. ‘I would add that he has a hard act to follow. Maureen Jobson has been an excellent Head of Education – an outstanding leader and colleague. She is a remarkable person who has inspired confidence through her absolute integrity and professionalism and has always put the needs of children first.’ Richard Jennings will be taking up the Head of Education post in August.
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