Lesley Birse joins ECITB Board

The UK’s Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) has today announced the appointment of Wood’s Lesley Birse to its Board.

Lesley brings more than 20 years of experience in global HR for the oil and gas sector to the role. As president of people and organisation for Europe, Africa, Middle East, Asia and Australia at Wood, Lesley covers 23,000 employees and works to harness the full potential of the workforce in particular through skills training in new technology.

“In recent years the oil and gas industry has been challenged and it has changed in response,” Lesley said.

“Lessons have been learned, efficiencies found and the sector is embracing innovations and a forward-thinking mindset to ensure its enduring position for the next generation of talent.”

“At this exciting time, it is fundamental we address the skills gap and invest in the bright minds who will continue to drive the success of Britain’s engineering and construction skills-base long into the future. In particular, going forward our industry will need enhanced technology skills as we look to embrace digitalisation,” Lesley added.

“I look forward to playing a part in this through my role on the ECITB board and leveraging my experience to add value to the tremendous support and influence the organisation provides.”

Lesley joins the Board at an important time for the ECITB as the training board develops its new strategy and levy offer, on which it will consult with industry later in the year.

Lynda Armstrong, chair of the ECITB Board, said: “I am very pleased to welcome Lesley to the Board. Her industry expertise and in-depth knowledge of the skills requirements of the oil and gas sector will be a major asset to the ECITB and I look forward to working with her over the coming years.”

Chris Claydon, chief executive of ECITB, said: “Lesley is an excellent addition to the Board. She joins at a crucial time for the ECITB as we develop our new strategy. Her insights will be invaluable in ensuring we continue to deliver innovative and effective initiatives to the industry’s skills and training needs and maximise the value of the training levy.”