Governance

Chris Evans is the Chair of Governors at Coastland College, bringing extensive experience in financial services and community leadership. Having led businesses in Asia, continental Europe and the UK, he specialised latterly in developing retirement income solutions for individuals with health conditions, demonstrating a strong understanding of financial management and customer-focused strategies.

Beyond his professional career, Chris has a deep commitment to the countryside, education and community service. Before relocating to Dorset, he chaired a regional charity supporting young people with learning difficulties, helping to improve opportunities for those facing educational challenges. His leadership experience, combined with his passion for supporting learners, ensures he brings valuable insight to his role at the college.

As Chair of Governors, Chris is dedicated to fostering strong governance, supporting the college’s strategic goals, and ensuring high-quality education and training opportunities for students. His background in finance and business leadership enables him to contribute effectively to the college’s ongoing success and its contribution to the community.”

Kate Wills is the Principal and CEO of Coastland College, leading the institution through an exciting period of growth and development. With over 20 years of experience in further and higher education, she brings extensive expertise in leadership, curriculum development, and strategic planning.

Previously, Kate served as Deputy Principal at The Cornwall College Group, a large further education provider with multiple campuses. Her experience in managing complex educational organisations enables her to drive innovation and excellence in teaching, learning, and student support.

Kate plays a key role in strengthening the college’s position as a leading provider of education and training in Dorset. She is committed to ensuring the college continues to meet local industry needs, creating opportunities for students and fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment. Under her leadership, the college continues to evolve, equipping students with the skills needed for future success.

Richard William Barker is a seasoned retail professional with extensive experience in commercial and educational governance. He has held senior management and board director positions with leading retailers, including Waterstone’s Booksellers, Blackwell Retail Ltd., The Stationery Office and Post Office Ltd. He has also served as Chairman of Book Tokens Ltd. and Book Marketing Ltd.

Richard’s background in commercial strategy, business acumen and corporate leadership is complemented by his experience as a Chair of Governors, demonstrating a strong commitment to education and governance.

John has a 30-year background in civil engineering and airport management, including leading on major projects such as Heathrow Terminal 5. He has managed large operational teams with full budgetary accountability and served as a crisis leader at Heathrow during periods of operational disruption. Throughout his career, he has maintained a strong focus on safety and workforce development.

Following his corporate career, John ran his own business, providing project management, interim leadership, and mentoring in business, careers, and leadership. He has supported Dorset SMEs, charities, and students on the Chartered Management Apprenticeship at Portsmouth University. He also chaired a not-for-profit employment and workforce training intermediary for 10 years.

Dawn Harvey is Chief People Officer within the NHS and has a career spanning over 30 years in both the private and public sectors. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, an executive coach and mentor and trained mediator. She has held senior leadership positions in sales, operations, learning and organisational development and HR and is passionate about creating inclusive environments where people can thrive .

Since joining the NHS in 2011, Dawn has led award-winning staff experience improvements and delivered major change and transformation. She relocated to Dorset in 2021 and enjoys walking, cycling, and swimming, making the most of the region’s stunning coast and countryside.

Graham Ledden is a retired Chartered Accountant with a wealth of experience in financial management within the education sector. After qualifying in accountancy with EY, he spent much of his career in senior financial roles within the NatWest Group. He later served as Finance Director in the care sector before transitioning to education in 2008. For nine years, Graham was Vice Principal for Business and Finance and Deputy CEO at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire, overseeing financial strategy and operational management. He is also Treasurer of the England Colleges Rugby Football Union, bringing further experience in financial governance and the education sector.

Anne Munro is a Learning Facilitator in the School of Construction at Weymouth & Kingston Maurward College, supporting students in carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation and brickwork. With over 30 years in education, she previously spent 15 years as a Lecturer in English as a Foreign Language and Programme Manager at the University of Plymouth, alongside teaching roles in Italy and France.

As a staff governor, Anne is committed to collaboration, transparency and ensuring staff voices are heard in decision-making. She values inclusivity and continuous development, bringing experience from higher education committees to support the college’s mission and student experience.

Nicola Newman is an experienced Non-Executive Director, CEO and Executive Director with a background in leadership, governance, strategic communications and skills. She has worked across the education, sport, charity and corporate sectors.  Nicola has previously run an executive search consultancy and a public relations and events business. She currently leads the Local Skills Improvement Plan for Dorset Chamber and the Department for Education. In addition, she chairs the Dorset Skills Board and serves as the Governors’ Careers Link for the College and The Swanage School. Her knowledge of economic and skills development policy, coupled with her leadership in government and commerce, brings valuable insight to the college board.

Kay Taylor retired in 2019 as Executive Principal of the Minerva Learning Trust, a group of primary and secondary schools in Bridport. Prior to this, she served as Headteacher of The Sir John Colfox Academy, following a long career in education.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Kay studied at the University of Aberdeen before teaching history in Scotland, Hemel Hempstead, and Milton Keynes. She moved to Bridport in 1993 to take up a Deputy Head role and has since played a key part in the region’s educational leadership. She is also a Non-Executive Director on the Integrated Care Board for NHS Dorset.

Shaun Temple Brown is an experienced audit and risk assurance professional with over 30 years in advisory, executive, and independent director roles. An ACA-qualified accountant and former Associate Partner at a Big 4 professional services firm, he has a strong track record of helping organisations manage strategic, financial and operational risk.

Shaun specialises in strengthening internal controls and governance to support sound decision-making. He is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and has served as a charity trustee and vice chair. His expertise includes audit, assurance, risk management, and corporate governance.