Gower College Swansea appoints Kelly Fountain as new CEO





Gower College Swansea appoints Kelly Fountain as new CEO

Daniel Bevan - Senior Journalist
Gower College Swansea, one of Wales’ largest further education institutions, has announced the appointment of Kelly Fountain as its new Chief Executive Officer. She will succeed outgoing CEO Mark Jones MBE, who is set to retire this summer after 12 years at the helm.
Fountain, who became Principal of the College in January 2024, brings over two decades of experience in the further education sector in both Wales and England. Before joining Gower College Swansea, she served as Vice Principal for Academic Services at NPTC Group of Colleges, with a background in strategic leadership, quality improvement, and institutional development.
During her short tenure as Principal, Fountain has already played a key role in shaping the College’s future, leading the development of its new strategic plan, as well as unveiling updated institutional values, vision, and mission.
In her new role, Fountain will be responsible for implementing the College’s strategic direction, enhancing external partnerships, and overseeing major initiatives including a digital transformation programme and an ambitious estates strategy. She will also lead efforts to further embed a strong and inclusive organisational culture.
“I am deeply honoured and privileged to be appointed as Chief Executive Officer of this exceptional College,” said Fountain. “Having begun my own educational journey here as a student in 1995, I have experienced first-hand the transformational impact this institution can have.”
“I look forward to building on Mark’s exceptional legacy, deepening our connections with the business community and delivering outstanding education and training across the region.”
Ian Price, Chair of the College Governing Body, welcomed the appointment, stating: “We would like to congratulate Kelly on her appointment as the new CEO of Gower College Swansea. I am looking forward to working closely with her and seeing the continued positive impact she will bring to the College.”
Gower College Swansea serves thousands of learners annually and plays a key role in the South Wales education landscape, offering a broad range of academic and vocational courses as well as employer-led training programmes.
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