Gerry McDonald CBE announced as President of the Association of Colleges

New City College Group Principal and CEO Gerry McDonald CBE has been announced as the President of the Association of Colleges. He will take up the role in October 2026.

This is an important role in the further education sector. As a high profile ambassador for further education, the President has an important role in representing England’s colleges.

In this position, Gerry will be the national voice for the further education community. He will also help to shape the strategic objectives of the Association of Colleges and take a lead role in stakeholder liaison with government ministers, external partners, and other key policy influencers and stakeholders.

In recognition of his services to further education, Gerry was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours.

Gerry said: “I am delighted to have been elected AoC President 2026-27. Building on the work of my predecessor, Pat Carvalho, I will continue to advocate for the further education sector and the critical role that colleges play in our communities.

“Never has our sector been more important and our voice so relevant. I will do all I can to ensure that the impact of colleges is seen, understood and valued by as wide an audience as possible.”

David Hughes, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Gerry McDonald has been elected as our President for 2026/27. He is a true champion of further education and brings with him enormous knowledge and experience in the sector. Gerry has given much to the AoC already, through his work leading our employment and pay negotiations committee.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with him to influence policy and funding and make the most of the many opportunities coming our way.

“The President role is an important one for the AoC and for our members, and I want to thank Pat Carvalho for the hard work she has put in, the impact she has made and the support and advice she has given me and the whole team at the AoC during her time as President.

“I also want to say a big thank you to Anna Dawe and Rebecca Gater for putting themselves forward for the role; it was absolutely brilliant to have three candidates running, and it shows the importance and value the position has for the sector.”