LCB Names Chris Duncan New Vice Principal of Finance & Resources

Key Points

• Leeds College of Building (LCB) has appointed Chris Duncan as its new Vice Principal – Finance & Resources.
• Chris Duncan previously served as Deputy Director of Finance at Leeds Trinity University and Group Finance Director at Luminate Education Group.
• His career spans extensive roles in private and public sectors, including positions at KPMG, Leeds City Council, and Leeds City College.
• Duncan progressed at Leeds Trinity University from Head of Finance to Deputy Director.
• LCB is the UK’s only further education college dedicated exclusively to construction and the built environment.
• The college, established in the 1960s, operates across two campuses in Leeds city centre.
• Nikki Davis, CEO & Principal of LCB, welcomed Duncan, highlighting his broad experience in further and higher education, regional teaching knowledge, and public sector financial expertise.
• Davis noted Duncan will lead vital corporate services in the Senior Leadership Team to support LCB’s growth and learner outcomes.

Leeds (The Leeds Times) February 3, 2026 – Leeds College of Building (LCB) has announced the appointment of Chris Duncan as its new Vice Principal – Finance & Resources, bolstering its senior leadership with a finance expert from the local education sector. Duncan assumes the role following his tenure as Deputy Director of Finance at Leeds Trinity University and Group Finance Director at Luminate Education Group. This move underscores LCB’s commitment to strengthening financial oversight amid its focus on construction training.

Who is Chris Duncan?

Chris Duncan brings a wealth of experience across private and public sectors to his new position at Leeds College of Building. Prior to his roles at Leeds Trinity University, where he advanced from Head of Finance to Deputy Director, Duncan held positions at KPMG, Leeds City Council, and Leeds City College.

These roles equipped him with diverse financial management skills relevant to educational institutions.

His background at KPMG provided private sector acumen in auditing and consultancy, while his time at Leeds City Council offered insights into public sector budgeting and governance. At Leeds City College, Duncan gained hands-on experience in further education finance, bridging his career towards higher education leadership at Leeds Trinity University and Luminate Education Group.

What is Leeds College of Building?

Leeds College of Building stands as the only further education college in the UK dedicated solely to construction and the built environment. Established in the 1960s, it has grown into a specialist institution addressing skills shortages in an industry vital to the UK’s economy.

The college operates from two campuses situated in Leeds city centre, providing state-of-the-art facilities for hands-on training in areas like bricklaying, carpentry, electrical installation, and civil engineering. This focus aligns with national priorities for sustainable building practices and green construction skills.

What Does the Vice Principal Role Entail?

In his capacity as Vice Principal – Finance & Resources, Chris Duncan will oversee a portfolio of essential corporate services at LCB. These responsibilities are pivotal for driving the college’s expansion and ensuring high-quality learner outcomes, as emphasised by college leadership.

The role demands strategic financial planning, resource allocation, and compliance with public sector regulations, all while supporting academic excellence in construction education. Duncan’s appointment signals LCB’s proactive approach to financial stability in a competitive further education landscape.

What Did LCB’s CEO Say?

As reported in the official LCB announcement, Nikki Davis, CEO & Principal of LCB, expressed enthusiasm for the appointment. She stated:

“We’re delighted to welcome Chris on board. He brings broad experience of the further and higher education sector, understanding of the regional teaching and learning landscape, and in-depth expertise of public sector financial leadership.”

Davis further elaborated:

“Chris will play a pivotal role within the Senior Leadership Team, responsible for a portfolio of vital corporate services that underpin the college’s growth and support excellent learner outcomes. I look forward to working together to help build the next chapter of LCB.”

Her comments, drawn directly from LCB’s press release, highlight the strategic importance of Duncan’s expertise.

Why Does This Appointment Matter for Leeds?

Leeds, as a hub for construction and education, benefits from leadership continuity at LCB. The college’s specialised mission supports local apprenticeships and upskilling, contributing to the city’s regeneration projects and housing initiatives. Duncan’s regional experience, particularly with Leeds-based organisations, positions him to navigate funding challenges in further education.

This hire comes at a time when further education providers face pressures from budget constraints and evolving industry demands for net-zero skills. LCB’s focus on the built environment aligns with government priorities, making robust financial leadership essential for sustained impact.

How Does Duncan’s Background Fit LCB’s Needs?

Duncan’s progression from private sector roles at KPMG to public entities like Leeds City Council demonstrates versatility. His stint at Leeds City College provided direct exposure to further education operations, while Luminate Education Group honed group-level financial strategy.

At Leeds Trinity University, as Deputy Director of Finance, he managed complex budgets across higher education faculties. This trajectory equips him to handle LCB’s dual-campus operations and specialised curriculum, ensuring fiscal prudence supports vocational excellence.

What Challenges Might LCB Face Ahead?

Further education colleges like LCB grapple with apprenticeship funding reforms and skills gaps in construction. Duncan’s public sector expertise could aid in securing grants and partnerships, vital for campus developments and programme expansions.

The built environment sector anticipates growth in retrofitting and sustainable builds, areas where LCB excels. Strategic resource management under Duncan may enhance employability rates, a key metric for college performance.

Broader Context of Education Leadership in Leeds

Leeds hosts several institutions emphasising vocational training, with LCB’s niche distinguishing it. Appointments like Duncan’s reflect a trend of cross-sector talent mobility, strengthening regional education ecosystems. No additional media coverage from outlets like the Yorkshire Evening Post or BBC Leeds was identified specifically on this announcement as of February 3, 2026, making LCB’s statement the primary source.

Nikki Davis’s vision for LCB’s “next chapter” implies ambitious growth, potentially involving digital upskilling or expanded outreach. Duncan’s role will be instrumental in realising these goals without compromising financial health.

Implications for Students and Industry

LCB’s 1,500-plus learners stand to gain from stable leadership focused on outcomes. Construction firms in Yorkshire rely on LCB graduates, and Duncan’s oversight could streamline industry placements.

The college’s city centre locations facilitate strong employer ties, from SMEs to major contractors. This appointment reinforces LCB’s reputation as a cornerstone of Leeds’ skills agenda.