Get to know our new Managing Director, David Higham

Get to know the new Managing Director of SFJ Awards, David Higham, as he reflects on his first month in the role.

1. Hi David, welcome to SFJ Awards! How are you finding things so far?

After four weeks, I am finding things both exciting and rewarding. The induction process has been smooth, with everyone being so incredibly supportive and welcoming. I’m getting a handle on things and learning the nuances of a new company is always interesting. Overall, I am feeling very positive about the organisation and confident that I will continue to thrive here.

2. Tell us a bit about yourself and your career background to date.

I started my career in IT and ended up working in a college on an IT project. After a while, I moved into a project managing training providers, that has led to a rewarding career in skills and education, taking me around the world and working with some of the most exciting organisations in both the private and public sector. For the past decade, I have held leadership roles across three very different FE colleges, mainly focused on employer responsive areas like apprenticeships, adult education and commercial programmes, where I have worked with public sector organisations ranging from the NHS and the Border Agency, through to private sector organisations including McDonalds and Aston Martin.

3. What appealed to you the most about joining the team at SFJ Awards?

What appealed to me most about joining SFJ Awards was the company’s unwavering commitment to making a difference in society through high quality qualification development. The opportunity to work with a team that values continuous improvement and places a strong emphasis on making a tangible difference in people’s professional lives was incredibly motivating. Additionally, SFJ Awards’ collaborative and inclusive culture resonated with my personal values, making it the ideal environment for me to contribute my skills and grow professionally.

4. What are you most looking forward to in your new role?

In my new role as Managing Director of SFJ Awards, I am most looking forward to driving strategic initiatives that will further our mission of delivering high-quality vocational qualifications. I am excited to work with a talented and passionate team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. One of my primary goals is to expand our reach and impact, ensuring that our qualifications continue to meet the evolving needs of learners and industries. I am also eager to build strong relationships with our stakeholders, partners, and customers, collaborating to enhance our offerings and support the professional development of individuals across various sectors.

5. When not supporting the emergency and protective services to grow and upskill the workforce, what do you get up to in your spare time?

My spare time is predominantly taken up by my family, which is wonderful. However, when I do get to escape from them, it is often on two wheels, either cycling in the Peak District or travelling further afield on my motorbike to places like the Isle of Man for the TT. I am also learning Greek to help with my trips to Greece to visit more family.