Semta chief Whiteman to step down

The move comes as the organisation enters a new era for vocational training where employers take ownership of delivering solutions to their own skills needs, said Semta. "We have seen huge change in the skills landscape in my eight years as chief executive," said Whiteman, who joined Semta in 1991 and worked his way up to chief executive. Whiteman added: "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'm leaving Semta well-positioned for the future and leading the skills development required for economic growth and sustainability." His successor will be selected by Semta's board chaired by Allan Cook – chairman of WS Atkins, chairman of SELEX Galileo and deputy chairman of Marshalls Group. Cook said: "Philip has been instrumental in developing Semta as one of the UK's leading Sector Skills Councils. 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."