Semta chief to step down

The move comes as the company gears up to lead a 'new era' of vocational training. "We have seen huge change in the skills landscape in my eight years as chief executive," said Whiteman. "Semta has delivered real results for employers with a 50% increase in N/SVQ registrations in ten years and a 24% increase in engineering and manufacturing apprenticeship starts last year alone. "We are moving into a new phase where employers have the opportunity to shape skills provision and co-invest in the design and delivery of vocational training. I am leaving Semta well positioned for the future and leading the skills development required for economic growth and sustainability." Whiteman's successor will be selected by Semta's board chaired by Allan Cook CBE, chairman of WS Atkins plc, chairman of SELEX Galileo and deputy chairman of Marshalls Group. "Philip has been instrumental in developing Semta as one of the UK's leading Sector Skills Councils," Cook said. "He has worked hard to ensure that our employer needs are well represented. The landscape for the development for skills in our sector has changed considerably over the past few years and Semta has responded positively to these changing demands. I would like to thank Philip personally for his leadership at Semta and wish him well in his retirement."