Board of Management

Ian took up post of Chair of the Board of Management on 1 August 2018. Previously a Board Member at John Wheatley College he has been a Board Member of Glasgow Kelvin College since its formation in November 2013. During this time he has Chaired the Human Resources Committee, the Audit and Risk Committee and since August 2016 has been Vice Chair of the Board.

Ian, a graduate of both the University of Glasgow and the University of Stirling brings over 30 years of experience of working in FE/HE to the Board. He started his career as a Maths teacher and then moved to Bell College in Hamilton as a Computing Lecturer, spending his subsequent career entirely in FE/HE. Within Bell College he held positions of Senior Lecturer in Computing, Director of Quality and finally, in the run up to the merger of Bell College and the University of Paisley to form the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), Acting Vice-Principal. After the formation of UWS he was Campus Director of the Hamilton Campus and until his retirement in 2014, Director of College Partnerships. Ian played a significant corporate role within the University as Chair of the University’s Collaborative Forum, its Student Disciplinary Committee and as Vice-Chair of its Student Experience Group.

With this considerable experience of both Education and Governance, Ian hopes to lead the Board in its role of constructively challenging and supporting the Senior Management of the College in its work of providing appropriate educational opportunities to the communities of North and East Glasgow.

Originally from Wishaw but having lived in the nearby small village of Bonkle for 30 years, Ian is married with two grown-up children both of whom are Chartered Accountants. His main hobby is Bridge which he plays competitively in national competitions within Scotland. He also enjoys keeping fit, travelling and supporting Motherwell FC.

Joanna Campbell is the Principal and Chief Executive of Glasgow Kelvin College, bringing over 28 years of experience in the tertiary education sector. She began her career as a Lecturer in Computing and has since held a range of senior leadership roles across several Scottish colleges.

Joanna joined Glasgow Kelvin College in April 2025, following six years as Principal of Dumfries and Galloway College. Prior to that, she served as Vice Principal for Student Experience at City of Glasgow College and held senior roles at Fife College and Forth Valley College.

She is also a board member of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, contributing to wider discussions on skills, education, and economic development. Outside of work, Joanna enjoys travelling and keeping fit.

Michelle Brand brings over 15 years of Executive and Governance support experience within the Further Education sector. Her career spans both public and private organisations, including roles within the Scottish Government and the banking industry. Alongside her extensive professional background, Michelle has also established and operated her own executive support business, working closely with Chief Executives and senior leaders.

In her current role as Secretary to the Board of Management, Michelle provides high-quality, professional governance support to the Chair and the Board of Management, contributing to effective decision-making and strong organisational oversight.

Outside her professional work, Michelle is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking, camping, and cold-water swimming. She is also a highly accomplished athlete, having competed internationally in powerlifting for 15 years and winning three European Powerlifting Championships.

Zebunisa Ahmed is an independent Data, AI, Strategy and Governance Advisor and Strategic Assessor for Innovate UK, where she evaluates high-value innovation funding proposals. With a career spanning financial services, public programmes and the third sector, she specialises in translating complex strategic and regulatory requirements into practical, accountable governance frameworks that deliver measurable outcomes.

Zebunisa began her career in data and management information analysis with Three and Tesco Bank before joining Virgin Money, where she spent nine years leading major transformation and governance initiatives. Her work included transforming enterprise reporting, developing the organisation's net-zero roadmap, conducting its first double materiality assessment, and chairing a 35-member cross-functional forum focused on modern slavery. She also played a key role in governance arrangements during the Nationwide and Virgin Money merger.

Alongside her professional career, Zebunisa has a strong track record of community and voluntary leadership. She spent nine years with TEDxGlasgow, ultimately serving as Head of Strategy, and four years as a trustee of PAMIS, a national charity supporting people with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Her interests include social impact, inclusion, equality and sustainable development, areas she is passionate about bringing to Board decision-making and governance.

Outside work, Zebunisa enjoys travelling, dancing, cooking, yoga and pilates, creating art prints, and is an enthusiastic Lego collector.

Martin Booth is an experienced public sector finance professional who currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer at ENABLE, a leading organisation dedicated to supporting people, employers, and communities. Originally from Glasgow, Martin began his career as a trainee accountant with Glasgow District Council and has since built a diverse and impactful career across both public and private sectors.

Over the years, he has held senior positions at a variety of local government bodies, contributed to the management team at HMP Kilmarnock, and worked with private sector firms such as PwC and IBM. He later returned to public service through COSLA and has since taken on a number of strategic roles within Glasgow City Council.

Martin brings to the Board of Glasgow Kelvin College a strong background in financial management, governance, and strategic leadership. He is passionate about the power of education and lifelong learning to transform lives and expand opportunities, particularly in communities facing social and economic challenges. Through his financial and governance expertise, he aims to play an active role in helping the College operate effectively and achieve its long-term objectives.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Martin is a keen golfer and an active rugby referee.

Maria, originally from Sandyhills in the east end of Glasgow and now lives in Cambuslang. After graduating from the University of Strathclyde with a degree in Human Resources, she began her career in a temporary HR role at the Glasgow Development Agency in 1999. What began as a six-month placement turned into a long-standing career with Scottish Enterprise.

Now serving as Director of People at Scottish Enterprise, Maria leads a broad corporate services portfolio including HR, Procurement, Facilities Management, Estates, Health & Safety, and Colleague Communications. She takes pride in shaping a supportive and empowering workplace culture that helps drive the organisation’s impact on Scotland’s economy.

As a Board Member of Glasgow Kelvin College, Maria aims to contribute strategically and offer governance insight to help maintain the College’s inclusive, student-focused mission. Her deep understanding of organisational development and people strategies enables her to provide valuable perspectives on how to foster a thriving institutional culture.

Maria recently completed an MSc in Organisational and Occupational Psychology, studied part-time online over 2.5 years, a testament to her passion for lifelong learning. Outside of work, she enjoys running, yoga, and balancing life as a busy working mum.

Born in Dublin, Colm has lived and worked in Glasgow since 2007. Colm has worked in education throughout his career, firstly as secondary school teacher, then as HE lecturer in the University of Strathclyde and currently as FE lecturer at Glasgow Kelvin College.

Colm aims to ensure that the views and needs of the College teaching staff are represented on the Board and aims to make a positive contribution to the future development of the College. His priorities would also include maximising the democratic participation of staff and students in College planning and governance, as well as contributing to the College’s work in increasing the successful participation in education of students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In his spare time he enjoys reading and walking and spending time with his family and daughter. Colm is a native Irish Gaelic speaker.

Steven Caldwell, originally from Paisley, studied Law at University, he then changed his career direction to pursue a profession as an accountant.

Steven began his journey by undertaking a training contract as a Chartered Accountant with Audit Scotland. In 2017 he successfully qualified as a Chartered Accountant and decided to join one of the prestigious 'Big 4' accountancy firms, where he continued to specialise in public sector audits.

In 2021, Steven took on a new role as an Audit Manager to which he manages a diverse portfolio of clients, including not-for-profit entities and universities.

Steven's focus for the work of the Board is centred around the success and growth of the College. He believes that the College's ability to achieve its full potential, benefits not only the students and staff but also the wider community. With his passion for education and deep knowledge of the sector, Steven is confident in his knowledge and experience to help the Board and College in the achievement of its objectives.

During his leisure time, Steven indulges in his love for travel, aspiring to visit his 30th country this year.

Dr Elaine Clafferty is a chartered electronic and electrical engineer with a doctorate in engineering education. She is currently a senior lecturer and year tutor at Glasgow Caledonian University and specialises in electronic and electrical engineering, software development, learner transition, widening access to education and the student experience.

Elaine was born in Edinburgh and brought up on the south side of Glasgow, she continues to live in south east Glasgow. She attended Glasgow University and, after graduating, worked in the electronics industry. After a 10 year career break during which she raised her four sons Elaine returned to education on a part time basis to update her skills before working in a series of part time and temporary roles leading to a full time post as a lecturer in analogue electronics at Glasgow Caledonian University. Elaine has held a number of educational leadership roles including Year Tutor, Student Success Centre Director, Head of Learning and Teaching, and Associate Dean of Learning, Teaching and Quality in the university’s technical schools. Elaine voluntarily works for her professional body, the Institution of Electrical Engineering and Technology (IET) participating in and chairing their engineering degree accreditation panels across the UK and beyond.

Elaine’s aim is to work with other Board members and the College’s Senior Management Team to contribute to ongoing improvement in the learner journey at Glasgow Kelvin College. This will lead to more people successfully completing qualifications that open the door to the good jobs and life chances that they deserve. Elaine brings a passion for the best experience for every student, her own track record in this area, and knowledge of what is happening in the wider education sector.

Elaine is very interested in diet and healthy eating and grows her own fruit and vegetables in her garden. She also buys lots of kitchen gadgets! Elaine’s four sons were educated in the Gaelic Units of Sir John Maxwell Primary and Hillpark Secondary schools.

Jon Craig was born and raised in Glasgow and currently serves on the Board of Management as the Student Association President of Welfare, Community and Sustainability. With a professional background rooted in the healthcare sector, Jon has also worked extensively with local charities supporting mental health and homelessness.

He is passionate about ensuring that the student voice is heard and meaningfully represented in all areas of college life. His focus on welfare, community, and sustainability reflects a strong commitment to inclusive practices and the wellbeing of all students.

In his free time, Jon enjoys spending time with friends, going to the cinema, travelling, walking, swimming, and crafting. He is a dedicated Lego enthusiast, always working on ambitious builds, and also has a deep love of music.

Jon brings energy, empathy, and a strong student-focused perspective to the Board and is proud to advocate for the interests and needs of the student community.

Helyn Gould is Deputy Associate Principal (Education, Systems and Enhancement) at the University of Strathclyde, where she provides strategic leadership for education, learning and teaching across the institution. With a career spanning education, technology, project management and academic leadership, she has developed extensive expertise in learning enhancement, digital education, work-based learning and employer-focused provision, including graduate and degree apprenticeships, continuing professional development and short-course delivery.

After completing a BSc in Mathematics and an MSc in Operational Research at the University of Strathclyde, Helyn began her career working in quality assurance before joining the University's Department of Management Science. Over the years, she has led a wide range of innovative digital learning initiatives while teaching across all levels of higher education, from pre-entry programmes to MBA provision. Her leadership roles have included Director of Undergraduate Studies, Associate Dean for Student Experience, Vice Dean (Academic) and, since 2016, Deputy Associate Principal.

Helyn brings significant experience in strategic change, governance, quality enhancement and large-scale digital transformation programmes. She is an active contributor to national discussions on skills development, widening access, apprenticeships, microcredentials and quality enhancement across Scotland's tertiary education sector. At the heart of her work is a commitment to lifelong learning, inclusion and creating outstanding opportunities and experiences for learners.

Originally from East Kilbride, Helyn is passionate about the transformative power of education and the role it plays in supporting individuals, communities and the wider economy. Outside work, she enjoys live music, comedy and cycling, particularly mountain biking. Her varied interests have also seen her co-run a cycling film distribution company, work at Clydebank's historic John Brown Shipyard and even spend a day as a zookeeper at Blair Drummond Safari Park.

Helyn serves on the Board of Management of Glasgow Kelvin College, where she brings strategic insight, collaborative leadership and a strong commitment to supporting learner success and institutional excellence.

Originally from London, Dermot has lived in Glasgow since 1997.

Dermot has a doctorate in Mathematics, specialising in pure mathematics, and since graduation has worked as an actuary for various companies, consultancies and the UK Government. He is currently the Company Actuary with the Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland. Dermot has also spent time teaching at London School of Economics where he studied for a Masters in Population and Development.

In his spare time Dermot enjoys various sports, although he admits he’s more of a spectator now. He has climbed several Munros and has a few more in his sights over the next couple of years. Dermot has also had the chance to appear on both radio and television a number of times, discussing topics related to demography and population.  Alongside his hobbies Dermot also supports the Glasgow based charities Citywise Mentoring and Pollockshields Community Food Point.

Dermot brings with him a wealth of Risk Management experience and is keen to help improve the lives of, and opportunities available to, the people of Glasgow.

Ross Hammell is Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at McTaggart Construction and a recognised leader in sustainability, social value and community impact within the construction sector. With more than a decade of experience delivering social value initiatives across Scotland, he has dedicated his career to creating opportunities, developing skills, and improving social mobility through meaningful partnerships between industry and communities.

Growing up, just a short distance from Glasgow Kelvin College's Springburn Campus, Ross is a former student of the College and has first-hand experience of the positive role further education plays in transforming lives. His career began in construction before moving into youth work and community development, later combining these experiences to build a career focused on maximising the positive impact that businesses can have on people and places.

In his current role, Ross leads on sustainability, environmental responsibility, workforce development and social value strategy, helping to ensure that construction projects deliver lasting benefits for local communities. Throughout his career, he has championed a range of award-winning programmes, including initiatives that contributed to McTaggart Construction being recognised as Scottish Apprentice Employer of the Year.

As a Board Member, Ross is passionate about strengthening links between education and industry, supporting work-based learning, apprenticeships and vocational pathways that create real opportunities for students. He brings extensive experience in partnership working and a strong commitment to helping the College continue its vital role in developing talent, supporting communities and improving life chances.

Away from work, Ross has been involved in grassroots football coaching for over eight years. In 2023, he was honoured to deliver the graduation address at Glasgow Kelvin College, an experience he describes as one of the proudest moments of his professional career and one that inspired him to become more closely involved in supporting the College's future success.

Moira MacDonald brings over three decades of extensive experience in the National Health Service (NHS) across Greater Glasgow and Clyde, where she has held various senior roles in Human Resources. Currently serving as the Head of Learning and Education at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Moira has played a pivotal role in shaping and delivering people strategies that underpin high-quality patient care. Her career has focused on fostering staff development and driving forward initiatives that support the evolving needs of a modern healthcare workforce.

A long-standing and active member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), Moira contributes to both regional and national groups, reinforcing her commitment to professional excellence in HR and education.

Moira is passionate about skills development and sees this as a transformative time for education. She is eager to support Glasgow Kelvin College in delivering opportunities that prepare students for meaningful careers and future success.

Outside of her professional work, Moira has volunteered for several years with the Boys’ Brigade in Scotland, where she leads engaging activities for the youngest members of the Anchors Section.

Aaliyah Murdoch is an Administration and Campus Assistant at Glasgow Kelvin College, where she plays a key role in supporting the day-to-day operation of the campus. Her responsibilities include front-of-house services, assisting students, coordinating room bookings and supporting campus facilities and maintenance activities.

Originally from a small village in East Lothian, Aaliyah's career journey began with customer-facing roles from a young age, including delivering newspapers and working for several years with McDonald's, where she developed experience in customer service, administration and supporting new team members. She later joined Glasgow Kelvin College, bringing her strong organisational skills and commitment to supporting learners and staff.

As a Board member, Aaliyah is passionate about ensuring the voices of support staff are represented and heard. Drawing on her experience as both a former student and a current member of front-line staff, she provides valuable insight into the student experience and the day-to-day operation of the College. She is committed to helping the Board understand the needs of learners and staff while contributing a practical perspective to strategic discussions.

Outside work, Aaliyah enjoys reading novels and comic books, collecting vinyl records and memorabilia, and spending time on creative hobbies such as crocheting, colouring and building Lego sets. She also has a talent for special effects makeup, having created Halloween looks for friends and family over many years..

Ronnie Palin is Regional Skills Planning Lead (Central) at Skills Development Scotland (SDS), where he works with partners across Central Scotland to align skills planning, economic development and workforce priorities with employer demand and regional growth ambitions.

Originally from Kirkby, Liverpool, Ronnie studied Pure and Applied Chemistry at Nottingham Trent University before completing a PhD in Organic Synthesis at the University of Strathclyde. He spent over a decade in the pharmaceutical industry with Merck and its predecessor companies, leading chemistry teams involved in the discovery of several candidate medicines. He is a named inventor of BRIDION® (sugammadex), the first-in-class medicine used to reverse muscle relaxation in surgical patients, and has received multiple industry and scientific awards, including the Royal Society of Chemistry's Malcolm Campbell Memorial Prize and the Nexxus Life Science Award for Innovation.

Ronnie later joined Redx Pharma as Director of Scientific Strategy, helping to grow the business and contributing to the development of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor that was acquired by LOXO Oncology and developed into the approved cancer treatment Jaypirca® (pirtobrutinib). Since joining Skills Development Scotland in 2013, he has led strategic skills planning across key growth sectors and regions, working closely with employers, academia, industry bodies and public sector partners.

As a Board member, Ronnie is committed to supporting strategic leadership that strengthens opportunities for learners, promotes social mobility and helps communities thrive through education and skills development. Outside work, he enjoys golf, travelling and supporting his son at golf competitions across the UK.

Lesley Quinn brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to lifelong learning to her role on the Board of Management at Glasgow Kelvin College. A lifelong resident of Glasgow’s East End, Lesley’s career began as a junior shorthand typist within a political party. Her dedication and drive saw her rise through the ranks to become Chief Executive of the party from 1999 to 2008, during which she was deeply involved in civic engagement across Scotland.

Currently serving as a Divisional Director, Lesley leads key corporate functions including communications, training, customer service, and strategic planning. She also oversees a supported manufacturing factory that employs and empowers individuals with a range of disabilities, an aspect of her work she finds especially fulfilling.

With a strong belief in the transformative power of education, Lesley is passionate about supporting access to lifelong learning. Having benefited from adult education herself through various colleges, she actively encourages others to pursue upskilling and personal development. On the Board, she aims to contribute her broad experience to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and successful learning environment for students and staff alike.

Outside of her professional life, Lesley enjoys mentoring, walking, staying active at the gym, and keeping informed on current affairs through avid reading.

Dr Linzi Shearer is Head of Capability Development at Opencast Software, where she leads strategic learning, skills and workforce development initiatives. Her career has centred on the intersection of education and industry, with extensive experience in skills development, capability building, behavioural science, digital transformation and sustainability.

Linzi began her career in the Scottish college sector at City of Glasgow College, where she held roles including STEM and Innovation Manager and Lead Instructional Designer. She subsequently established a national Academy of Excellence at CALA Group and held senior learning and improvement roles with Legal & General before joining Opencast Software.

Her academic credentials include an MA in Psychology from the University of Glasgow, an MSc in Environmental Studies, a Postgraduate Certificate in Climate Change Adaptation from the University of Strathclyde, and an Engineering Doctorate in Applied Behavioural Science from the University of Surrey.

A passionate advocate for widening access to education and promoting vocational and technical learning pathways, Linzi brings valuable experience of the college sector, governance, and industry-led skills development to the Board. Having grown up in North Glasgow, she is committed to supporting Glasgow Kelvin College in delivering opportunities that transform lives and strengthen local communities.