Tech Foundations (Further Education) Working Group

With over 21 years of experience in the Edtech industry, Sian joined The Skills Network in February 2022. Experienced in growth, strategic business development, strategic skills strategies, customer experience, marketing and brand, Sian works with customers, colleagues, and partners to further the reach and impact of FE and HE. As a member of numerous social cause groups, Sian advocates for inclusive skills opportunities for all, driving forward accessible learning and skills opportunities throughout the sector and beyond.

An experienced C-Suite executive serving the Further Education and Skills sector over four decades. The UK Executive lead for Jisc’s Further Education and skills policy, member engagement, artificial intelligence and advice & training services for both further and higher education. Leads on Jisc’s strategy for building the digital leadership capacity within FE, HE and Skills institutions whilst also leading on the strategic engagement for FE and Skills with UK Government funders. Robin also leads on collaboration with other relevant agencies and digital suppliers. Robin is an experienced and former College CEO, trustee and non-executive director while also having held positions as Chair of educational establishments and technology associations. Currently a Board member and Chair of the Curriculum and Standards Committee at West London College; a Director and Trustee of the awarding organisation NCFE, a Board member of the National Association of Licensed Paralegals and a Governor of Suffolk New College.

Dimple is an experienced education practitioner and entrepreneur. She has worked in the vocational education sector for more than 15 years in various roles, She has led teams of delivery, business development and setting up & running two successful training companies in the U.K. Her specialisms include AI, digital technology, curriculum design to support the delivery of technology standards, preparation for quality assurance, employer engagement, team management, partnership working, designing e-learning, project management and supporting delivery teams.

As Technology and Solution Head for Education Sector TCS UK&I, I believe that the future of Digital will be all about “trust-based experience, both internally and externally”. My experience in EdTech has focused on the opportunities created by the convergence of data, behavioural science, creativity and technology implementation, while ensuring inclusive and responsible outcomes. As an ex-CIO and Accountant Lead at a big 4 firm, I led large & complex IT project implementations for Fortune 500 clients in the UK, USA, Singapore, the Philippines, and India. This included advising clients on understanding the implications of game changing technologies such as AI on people, design, and user experiences.

Jaroszlav, or Slava as he is better known, is the Senior Business Development Manager at techUK. Day to day Jaroszlav is responsible for making prospective members aware of membership benefits, advising them how to get the most out of their investment and introducing them to relevant programme activities and business services. Jaroszlav has experience in working in the tourism, hospitality and retail sectors and is keen to form long lasting relationships with technologists and support their growth strategies in the UK. Outside of work, Jaroszlav enjoys travelling across Europe, meeting people and is an avid reader of speculative fiction.