Published on: March 24, 2025 at 8:56 AM
Energy & Utility Skills is pleased to announce that Paul Cox has been appointed Group Chief Executive as of 24 March 2025.
An experienced CEO, strategic leader and Fellow of the Institute of Leadership (FIoL), Paul has a proven track record in delivering growth, influencing policy, and leading skills transformation in regulated sectors in a number of roles.
Paul has held several senior leadership roles in the further education and skills sector since 2009, including the position of Chief Executive, Accounting Officer, and Board Member for Eastleigh College and University Centre. More recently, as Director of Skills at Serco, Paul led initiatives to enhance the UK’s skills landscape, significantly improving apprenticeship achievement rates, and working closely with policymakers in key devolved regions to increase access to inclusive, accessible and award winning skills development opportunities. Paul is also a qualified teacher, bringing deep expertise in education and workforce development.
Paul Cox succeeds Phil Beach CBE who is taking up the role of Chair of the Energy & Utility Skills Board in May after 5 years in post.
Energy & Utility Skills Chair, Tracey Matthews commented:
“We would like to congratulate Paul on his appointment and welcome him on behalf of the Board and all at Energy & Utility Skills. It’s clear that Paul is passionate about the opportunities for skills and the role they play in delivering the transition to net zero and environmental sustainability.
Paul joins us as the company enters its new strategic period and as the sector finalises its workforce and skills plans through to 2030.”
Paul Cox said:
“I am delighted to be joining Energy & Utility Skills at such a critical time for the sector. Ensuring a resilient and skilled workforce is essential to achieving energy security and long-term sustainability.
I look forward to working with our members, government, devolved authorities, partners, and the many talented colleagues on our team to deliver our shared ambitions.”