The Staff College has announced that Jo Davidson has been appointed as the new Principal of the College following the previously announced retirement of the current Chief Executive, Anton Florek. Jo will work with Anton during a phased induction period in April, fully picking up the reins in May. Anton will continue to be involved with the work of the College acting as strategic advisor and working closely with Jo.

Chair of the College’s Board Martin Pratt said:

“I’m delighted that we have been able to secure someone of the calibre of Jo to lead the College through the next phase of its journey. She brings huge experience and a deep knowledge of the children’s services sector having worked in many different roles and types of local authority. Jo was a Director of Education and then Director of Children’s Services for 15 years. She also knows the work of the College well and has been part of the faculty for some time.

I’m looking forward to working closely with Jo at an exciting time for the College and an important moment for leadership in the sector. She will be looking to refresh the College’s relationship with DCSs and other stakeholders and to build on our strong legacy of innovative and effective leadership development so that we continue to be deeply relevant to the needs of the sector into the future.”

Jo said:

“I am so pleased and feel very privileged to be given the opportunity to take the work of the College forward. I am really looking forward getting started and know that although there are many leadership challenges in Children’s Services and education, there is huge passion and commitment in the people working in the sector to get things right for children. The College exists to provide the right leadership development and support so that current and emerging leaders are in the best possible place to deliver for children & young people.”