Ex-Channel 4 nations and regions boss succeeds Laura Mansfield at training body

Former Channel 4 nations and regions boss Sinéad Rocks has been appointed chief executive of training body ScreenSkills.

Rocks assumes the position from November, succeeding Laura Mansfield in the role.

She most recently spent seven years as managing director of nations and regions at C4, where she oversaw the rollout of the PSB’s strategy to increase its spend on creative content across the nations and regions, and founded the broadcaster’s skills training wing 4Skills.

She also led on the opening of C4 creative hubs in Bristol and Glasgow, as well as its National HQ in Leeds, where she was based.

It was reported back in May that she would be departing C4.

Prior to C4, Rocks spent 17 years at the BBC, where she was ultimately director of education, responsible for a range of content across TV, radio and online. She also played a key role in the BBC’s move to Salford by migrating the BBC’s Learning department there.

She has also chaired the Talent and Skills Working Group of the Creative Industries Council.

Lisa Opie will remain in post as executive chair through November, working closely with Rocks and the senior leadership team to ensure continuity and a smooth transition at ScreenSkills.

Opie said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming Sinéad to ScreenSkills. Her career to date speaks of a strategic leader with a real passion for putting national and regional talent on the industry map.”

Rocks said of her appointment: “I know first-hand how important the organisation is to the sector and the impact it has had. This is a time of real opportunity, helping employers and the workforce respond to emerging changes and making sure that no matter your background or circumstances, everyone has the support to access, sustain and progress through their careers in our sector.

“This is something I’m passionate about and I can’t wait to get started and work with industry and government partners to ensure we build on the progress to date and meet the needs of this vital industry and its workforce in the future.”