United Colleges Group’s (UCG) Chief Executive Officer and Group Principal, Stephen Davis, has been appointed to serve on the Board of Skills Development Scotland (SDS).

Ben Macpherson, Scottish Government Minister for Higher and Further Education, confirmed the addition of five new members to the SDS Board: Stephen Davis, Zahra Hedges, Louisa Macdonell, Lisa Thomson and Danny Gallacher. Each will serve a four-year term from January 8, 2026 until January 7, 2030.

Skills Development Scotland is the national skills body supporting the people and businesses of Scotland to develop and apply their skills, driving inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The Board plays a key role in shaping the strategic direction of SDS and ensuring that its work continues to meet the evolving needs of learners, employers and communities across the country.

Mr Davis brings to the role more than 33 years of experience in further and higher education leadership. Throughout his career, he has worked across England, Scotland and the United States, collaborating closely with governments and employer representative bodies on the creation and implementation of skills development policy.

As CEO and Group Principal of United Colleges Group ─ one of the largest college groups in England ─ he has led significant structural change while maintaining a steadfast focus on meeting the needs of learners and stakeholders.

Frank Mitchell, Chair, Skills Development Scotland, said: “These appointments come at a pivotal moment for the organisation and for Scotland’s education and skills system as a whole.

“We are continuing to work with Scottish Government on the Tertiary Education and Training Bill whilst continuing to deliver a range of products and services to people and businesses across Scotland. 

“These additions to the SDS Board will further bolster our drive towards a future operating model for the organisation, and I congratulate Stephen, Zahra, Louisa, Lisa and Danny on their appointments.”

Speaking about his appointment, Stephen Davis, CEO and Group Principal, United Colleges Group, said: “Skills development is a key component in the engine for economic growth and social mobility, and I have seen firsthand how its power has a positive impact on individuals, business and communities.

“This role is an opportunity to strengthen connections between skills policy and delivery, generating insights that will benefit learners everywhere.”