Mick Clayton

As CEO my role is all encompassing, from defining the overall strategy of the business to ensuring our qualifications are fit for purpose and delivered effectively.

As with any awarding body, regulation and compliance are critical parts of the operation and I hold the position of ‘Responsible Officer’ for GQA. I am also involved with the regulatory authorities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland as a key part of my role, along with opening up new avenues for the development of training and qualifications in emerging economies such as China, India and the Middle East. I have visited many new places and it is encouraging to see that they are interested in raising standards to the highest levels even at such early stages of their economic development.

I work with a great team of people who are all fully committed to our key purpose, to help raise standards across a range of industries. Their passion and devotion to their jobs makes my job so much easier and I am lucky to be able to manage such a great team.

The biggest challenge I face is keeping abreast of policy and directional change across four different Regulatory Authorities to ensure that we remain compliant and subsequently keep our qualifications available to our Approved Centre Network.

I love dealing with passionate people, I love spotting something in someone that lights their inner fire, and I consider ‘talking to people’ one of the key elements of my role and arguably the most important.

My old boss with a previous employer, and ex-GQA External Verifier, Tom Steele, spotted something in me a long, long, long time ago and gave me a chance. That moment in time, the confidence shown in me by Tom, his ability and his knowledge, inspired me.

On a completely different level seeing the innocence and enjoyment of my daughter playing in an Under 11 girls football team at AFC Pogmoor, as well as coaching them also inspires me, it’s great to see.