Suffolk New College has appointed a new principal to start this summer following the retirement of Professor Dave Muller.

Over a two day assessment period, candidates met 150 students, 50 staff members, senior representatives from employers and businesses in Suffolk, and College Corporation members.

Viv Gillespie shone amongst the applicants, all of whom were put forward to the college via AoC (Association of Colleges) Create.

Ms Gillespie is experienced in further education having worked previously at both Northumberland College and City College Plymouth as principal.

Prior to that she has had a range of roles both management and teaching at Warwickshire College, Rugby College, and Charles Keene, Wigston and Loughborough Colleges.

Her current post, which she has held since January 2013, has been principal of South Worcestershire College.

Chair of Corporation Roger Fern said: “Suffolk New College is fortunate to have attracted someone with the amount of experience which Viv has.”

Ms Gillespie is expected to join the college from mid-June, and will commence full duties as principal from July 1.

“I am excited at the prospect of joining Suffolk New College as its new principal in the near future,” Ms Gillespie said.

“I look forward to working with staff, governors and students, as well as local employers and partners in the community, leading the college forward in its next stage of development.”