Training Academy Leader in Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear

Branta is exclusively seeking a visionary Training Academy Lead to spearhead the launch and growth of a dedicated, state-of-the-art technical Training Academy.

In this pivotal role, you will bridge strategic talent planning with operational execution—transforming a 3-year people strategy into an active hub for apprenticeship pipelines, multi-skill engineer development, and leadership succession. Simultaneously, you will run the physical academy as a commercially viable space, establishing high-value partnerships with industry manufacturers, local colleges, and external engineering firms.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & Academy Delivery: Build, launch, and direct the Academy from year-one setup through to full maturity, embedding structured career pathways, mentoring frameworks, and succession plans.

• Upskilling & Internal Talent: Audit existing engineering capabilities across Gas, Electrical, AC/Renewables, and BEMS; design tailored upskilling programmes that improve first-time fix rates, boost retention, and drive internal promotions.

• Apprenticeships & Education Partnerships: Collaborate with local colleges and independent training providers to co-develop blended vocational pathways and portfolio assessments in full compliance with regulatory benchmarks.

• Manufacturer & B2B Engagement: Partner with leading equipment manufacturers to secure certified in-house training for internal teams while monetising the facility through commercial hire and independent engineer courses.

• Facility & Commercial Operations: Act as the general manager for the physical academy—managing workshop scheduling, asset investments, tooling, and exploring avenues to establish an on-site ACS gas assessment centre.

What We Are Looking For

• Proven Track Record: Experience as a Training Academy Manager, Apprenticeship Coordinator, or Technical Training Lead within building services, engineering, utilities, or vocational education.

• Programme Design: Background in creating competency frameworks, structured career ladders, and managing college/provider apprenticeship schemes.

• Commercial & Operational Mindset: Comfortable balancing internal training calendars with commercial revenue generation through external facility hire and course delivery.

• Technical Breadth: Familiarity with building services trades (HVAC, Electrical, Mechanical, Gas, Renewables) is highly advantageous.

• Compliance & Essentials: Full UK Driving Licence, Right to Work in the UK, and ability to pass standard DBS screening.

Apply online today or contact Astrid Camacho at Branta Consulting for a confidential conversation.