Nottingham College has appointed Alex Peace-Gadsby OBE DL as its new Chair of Governors, bringing a wealth of leadership, governance and education experience to one of the UK's largest further education colleges.
As Chair of the Board from 1 August 2026, Alex will help shape the strategic direction of Nottingham College, working closely with the senior leadership team to support the delivery of high-quality education and training to more than 20,000 young people and adults each year.
Alex’s leadership experience spans business, education and the voluntary sector. An accomplished entrepreneur, investor and non-executive leader, Alex has built an impressive career driving growth and strategic change across both UK and international organisations.
Alongside her commercial success, Alex has made a significant and sustained contribution to public life. She has chaired and served as trustee for a wide range of national charities and foundations, including her current role as Chair of Parentkind and Chair of the Inspire and Achieve Foundation.
Her previous leadership roles include Chair of Youth United Foundation and Chief Commissioner of The Scout Association in England, where she was responsible for supporting volunteers and shaping strategy for one of the UK’s largest youth organisations.
She is widely recognised as a values-driven leader with a passion for widening opportunity and enabling individuals to reach their full potential. In recognition of her contribution to entrepreneurship and the community, Alex was awarded an OBE in 2019 and appointed Deputy Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire in 2021.
Alex said: "Nottinghamshire is very much at my heart, and Nottingham College makes a real difference to so many people. There are wonderful staff and wonderful students here, and I am excited to play my part in supporting the college as it continues its impressive upward journey and creates opportunities for people across our city and wider region.
“I have long been passionate about supporting young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to access the opportunities they need to thrive. I firmly believe that education - and further education in particular - can be a powerful leveller, enabling individuals to build skills, confidence and pathways into meaningful careers and brighter futures.
“Nottingham College plays a vital role in this, both for its students and for the wider region, and I am excited to work with fellow governors, staff and partners to build on that impact.”
Principal and CEO, Janet Smith, added:
“We are so pleased to welcome Alex Peace-Gadsby as Chair of Nottingham College. Alex brings a wealth of leadership experience, a strong commitment to education and a deep understanding of the role colleges play in transforming lives and supporting economic growth here in Nottingham.
"As we look ahead to the next chapter in our journey through the launch of our new Strategic Plan for 2026-29, her support will be invaluable in helping us deliver outstanding opportunities for our students, employers and communities. We look forward to working with Alex as we continue to shape an extraordinary future for Nottingham College.”