A SADDLEWORTH man has been appointed to a powerful role at Oldham College.
Adrian Barrass, who sits on the board of Delph’s Millgate Arts Centre through his involvement with the area’s film society, has been named vice-chair of the board of governors at the town centre establishment.
He will assist Brian Cronin, who has been named head of the committee, replacing Jonathan Edwards, who served on it for 16 years and was its chair for eight.
Mr Barrass has served on the board since 2024, in the vice chair role of resources committee and link governor for sustainability and IT.
He was educated at Saddleworth School before eventually earning a master’s degree in engineering from Sheffield University.
Regarding himself as a proud member of the Oldham community, he has also been fortunate to live and work in Europe and North America within the chemical, oil, steel, consumer goods and pharmaceutical sectors.
And after being appointed to the position following the departure of Sue Kershaw, Oldham College’s principal Simon Jordan said: “I am delighted to welcome Brian Cronin as the new chair of our board of governors, and Adrian as our vice chair.
“They each bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the Board from their respective careers.
“I look forward to working with both to build on the College’s success.
“Their support will be invaluable in helping us to continue delivering the best possible provision for students, staff, stakeholders and members of the Oldham community.
“I would also like to thank Jonathan Edwards for his leadership for the past eight years, and both Jonathan and Sue Kershaw for their dedication and contributions to Oldham College during their time on the board.”
Mr Cronin has a career in the voluntary housing sector that spans more than 35 years.
He said: “It is a great privilege to be appointed chair of Oldham College at such an exciting period of growth and transformation.
“Jonathan leaves the college in a strong position, and I look forward to working with governors, staff, students and our partners to build on this strong foundation and deliver our ambitious goals for it and the Oldham community.
“We have a dedicated board focused on creating the conditions for the college to thrive, supported by a talented principal and senior leadership team, who are committed to unlocking potential.”
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