OUTSTANDING training provider appoints new Managing Director

Axia Solutions, a local Ofsted Grade 1 apprenticeships and training provider, ranked OUTSTANDING by inspectors, has appointed a new Managing Director.

Paula Rowland, from Chester, joined the company in March 2017 and brings with her over 20 years’ experience in the secondary and further education and work based learning fields.

Axia Solutions is a company that provides quality training that is both employer and employee centric. Operating independently, it is a wholly owned subsidiary of Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG), delivering a range of vocational training programmes designed to meet the demands of learners and employers. When the company first established in 1999, it initially specialised in supplying apprentices to companies within the ceramic industry supply chain. However, over the years and since NSCG acquired Axia Solutions in May 2014, the company is now able to offer a much broader range of programmes and qualifications.

Paula Rowland, newly-appointed Managing Director at Axia Solutions, said: “I am thrilled to have been appointed as Managing Director of such a successful training provider that already has a strong reputation locally. The role will present a new and exciting challenge for me, especially as I will be joining at a time of national apprenticeship reforms giving me the opportunity to concentrate my efforts on promoting the skills agenda in the workplace.”

Paula, continues: “Our strategy focuses on developing and maintaining excellent working relationships with our partners and clients by delivering training that is truly employer-led. Our aim is to work closely with employers and employees helping to develop skills that will add value to both the company and the individual.”

Paula began her career in education in 1989 where she was an English teacher in a secondary school in Widnes, Cheshire. After taking a short break to bring-up her two children, Paula then joined West Cheshire College teaching A level and then before moving in to Management of the construction programmes. She moved to Newcastle-under-Lyme College where she held the position of Manager of Construction and Engineering for four years.

Prior to Paula joining Axia Solutions, she spent five years at Hugh Baird College in Liverpool, where she held the role as Director of Construction and Engineering before quickly being promoted to Assistant Principal where she oversaw a number of vocational subject areas, as well as commercial enterprises and the College’s Business Development Unit.

Craig Hodgson, Vice Principal at NSCG & Director at Axia Solutions, said: “Paula has a clear vision of where to take Axia Solutions to ensure the service provided to all service users is of the highest quality available by building on the strong foundations Axia Solutions already has. Her experience in further education, training, work based learning and business strategy means she will be a great asset to NSCG and we’re really happy to welcome Paula on board.”