Announcing our new Chief Executive, Ben Blackledge

A leading voice in UK and international skills development will join us at a pivotal moment for opportunity and growth.

Today we’ve announced the appointment of Ben Blackledge as our new Chief Executive, bringing extensive experience in skills leadership and a strong commitment to transforming lives through education and opportunity.

Ben joins from WorldSkills UK, where he has spent the past 12 years, most recently as CEO, championing skills excellence and helping to create world-class opportunities for young people across the UK. He will take up his role with the us later in the year.  

His appointment comes at a critical time, as we continue to expand our work tackling some of the UK’s biggest challenges, including inequality and productivity, by improving access to skills and breaking down barriers to employment.

Driving impact through skills

Speaking about his appointment, Ben said:

“I am delighted to be joining the City & Guilds Foundation at such an important and exciting moment. The Foundation’s role has never been more vital, and I look forward to working with its outstanding team, partners and members to turn ambition into action.

The past 12 years at WorldSkills UK have given me the privilege of working with exceptional colleagues across the sector, creating life-changing opportunities for learners. I’m excited to bring that experience to help build clearer pathways that unlock productivity, tackle inequality and support a more inclusive economy.”

A pivotal moment for the Foundation

Last month we officially welcomed Jessica Leigh Jones MBE as Chair of the City & Guilds Foundation. Speaking about the appointment of Ben, Jessica said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Ben to the City & Guilds Foundation. He brings an exceptional track record, alongside a genuine passion for the role that skills can play in transforming lives and society.

At a pivotal moment for the UK, Ben’s leadership will be vital as we deepen our impact — building clearer pathways to opportunity and helping ensure that talent, wherever it’s found, can flourish.”

Continuing a strong legacy in skills

During his time at WorldSkills UK, Ben has played a key role in strengthening the organisation’s impact and international profile, including promoting UK skills excellence on the global stage.

He will remain in post at WorldSkills UK until October, where he will continue to lead the organisation through its participation in the WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 competition, before formally joining the Foundation in mid-October.

As CEO, Ben will lead our mission to improve access to vocational skills and create opportunities for people from all backgrounds. Working with employers, educators and communities, we’re aiming to build clearer pathways into work and support a more inclusive, productive economy.