The SCQF Partnership is delighted to announce the forthcoming appointment of its new Independent Chair, John Evans.

This follows a rigorous appointment process managed by the Board of the Partnership.

The role will see John leading the Board’s stewardship, vision and the strategic direction of the Partnership, working closely with the Chief Executive, Pauline Radcliffe.

John has worked in a range of senior roles, including CEO and HR Director across the private, public and third sectors. He has specialised in start ups and transformations, including the establishment of a new sector specific college in England and the development of qualifications for the National Police College.

He now works as an interim CEO, coach and mentor and is a non-executive director of Edinburgh Leisure and a trustee of two charities supporting opportunities for young people. He is a former chair of a sector skills council regional board.

John said: “I am delighted to be taking up the role of Chair of the Scottish Credits and Qualifications Framework Partnership at such an important time for individuals, employers, accrediting bodies and schools, colleges and universities. We are at a critical point for everyone involved and we will work hard to ensure that our future landscape delivers the best possible lifelong learning pathways for Scotland.

"I’d like to thank Rob Wallen, the current Chair, for his excellent leadership over the last eight years."

Pauline Radcliffe commented: “Rob Wallen has effectively overseen the maintenance and development of the quality, integrity and relevance over our national qualifications framework over the last years. 

"At such an important time of education and skills reform designed to improve learner pathways, it’s great to know that John will continue that legacy with his breadth of knowledge and experience across a range of sectors in governance and skills development.”

John’s appointment will commence in December 2023, following Rob Wallen’s retirement at the Partnership’s AGM.