Leeds College of Building Appoints Two New Governors

Experienced professionals join the Board to support college’s mission

Leeds College of Building (LCB) has announced the appointment of two new members to its Board of Governors, Phil Burgess and Sammy White. Their appointments bring a range of expertise from the construction and education technology sectors to the college’s governance team.

Phil Burgess brings extensive construction experience

Phil Burgess has over four decades of experience in the construction industry. After studying Quantity Surveying at Leeds Beckett University, he has worked for several prominent construction firms including Wates, Taylor Woodrow Construction, Willmott Dixon, and Seddon. Currently, he serves as Preconstruction Director at Wordsworth Construction Services, a role he has held since 2020.

Phil is a chartered Quantity Surveyor and expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Board. He highlighted his personal connection to the industry, noting that his father was a City & Guilds trained builder. He stated his intention to contribute to the development of students at the college, aiming to help them achieve success in the construction sector.

Sammy White advocates for diversity in technology and education

Sammy White is recognised as an award-winning EdTech specialist and has received accolades including the TechWomen100 Award and Tech Professional of the Year at Women in Tech 2025. She is known for her advocacy of diversity in technology and her commitment to encouraging more women to pursue careers in this field.

Sammy expressed pride in joining LCB, particularly as the college advances its role as a Construction Technician Education Council (CTEC) centre. She emphasised her interest in supporting further education and skills development in the local region, drawing on her experience working with local colleges and industry.

College leadership welcomes new governors

LCB Principal and CEO Nikki Davis commented on the appointments, welcoming Phil Burgess and Sammy White to the Board. She noted that their expertise would be valuable in guiding the college’s ongoing mission and activities. Ms Davis also expressed her anticipation of working closely with both new governors throughout the academic year.

About the Board of Governors

The Board of Governors at Leeds College of Building plays a key role in overseeing the strategic direction and governance of the institution. More information about the Board and its members is available on the college’s official website.