Derwen College is delighted to announce the appointment of Jamie Ward as its new Chair of Governors. Jamie, a long-standing governor and local businessman, brings with him a wealth of experience and a commitment to serving the community.
He succeeds Mrs Kathleen (K) Kimber, who has led the Board of Governors with dedication and passion for more than 10 years. While K steps down as Chair, she will continue to serve as an active and valued trustee.
Jamie has been a governor at College for over a decade and feels very much part of the Derwen College community. A local resident, business owner and family man, he combines extensive business experience with an infectious enthusiasm for learning and a belief in giving back to the community.
He is excited to start his new voluntary role, and says the time just felt right for taking on a new challenge.
“It’s something I wanted to do, for me,” Jamie says. “If everybody put just a little bit back into their community, then everyone’s lives would be easier and better. For some people, that’s picking up litter or doing a charity challenge. For me, it’s being a governor at Derwen College.”
Jamie, the youngest of five, grew up on a family farm just outside Whittington, where he still lives with his wife Janet. He is father to two grown-up children, Tori and David, who are both partners in the family business, Jamie Ward Butchers. The company has grown from wholesale sausage and bacon production into a thriving local business, with a shop in Chirk and manufacturing based at the family farm. It supplies a range of products to outlets including a Scotch egg company and Ludlow Farm Shop.
‘Retirement isn’t in my vocabulary’
At 65, Jamie has no plans to slow down. “Retirement isn’t in my vocabulary. In fact, I’m probably busier than ever. But I like to push myself. When you get the chance to be involved with somewhere as inspirational as Derwen, why wouldn’t you?”
Jamie’s connection to Derwen College goes back to childhood memories of taking part in the college’s Sponsored Walk at the age of four. These days, he’s often seen marshalling the event or supporting wherever needed.
As he steps into the role of Chair, Jamie is keen to bring continuity while offering a fresh perspective. “K is a tough act to follow. Very few people realise just how much she has done behind the scenes. Her passion for education and care for Derwen shone through in everything she did. I’m grateful that we’ll continue to benefit from her wisdom and support.”
Learning curve
Jamie is also keen to recognise the dedication of Derwen’s staff. “We employ more than 400 people at Derwen College. Each of those people has a family, and we have a responsibility to them all. The dedication and effort from them all – from teaching and support staff to the team in our Marketplace – is phenomenal. While students and clients are always at the heart of what we do, it’s important to value the incredible work happening behind the scenes.”
He acknowledges that the role will be a learning curve. “I admit there are things I don’t know, and that’s why having a strong and expert team around me is so important. I hope I’m approachable, and I’m always learning. I’m especially looking forward to attending this month’s Natspec Conference to connect with representatives from other specialist FE colleges across the UK.”
Outside of work, Jamie enjoys sports, including crown green bowling, and spending time with his grandsons, four-year-old James and one-year-old Joseph. “I’m currently the primary babysitter,” he laughs. “I love spending time with them – even if it’s exhausting!”
His wife Janet is no stranger to community leadership, having been the first female Chair of the Oswestry and District Agricultural Show. “So she can’t really complain about me taking on extra responsibilities!” Jamie jokes. “But seriously, she’s been incredibly supportive, as has my whole family.”
Shaping the future
Taking on the Chair role also provides an opportunity for Jamie to step back slightly from day-to-day business and give the next generation space to lead. “It’s their time to shape the future of the business, just as it’s my time to help shape the future of Derwen College.”
Jamie is looking forward to this new chapter, bringing his continued energy, optimism and passion for Derwen College.
He says: “I’ve learned so much from being part of the College already,” he says. “Now, I’m looking forward to building on the amazing work already happening here – supporting students, staff and the wider community that we’re so proud to be part of.”
