The principal and chief executive of Birmingham Metropolitan College has resigned with immediate effect, the institution has confirmed.

According to the 2016-17 college accounts, Andrew Cleaves received a salary of £266,000, placing him third on the list of highest-paid principals. Data from the previous years’ accounts showed that the college reduced its workforce by almost 400 between 2014-15 and 2015-16.

Mr Cleaves joined the college in 2014, having previously worked as managing director of National Express' international division.

Cause for concern

The college has been subject to a notice of concern over its finances from the Education and Skills Funding Agency since July 2015.

In a report on the institution’s position, published at the time, then FE commissioner Sir David Collins said its turnover had “declined significantly and the bottom line has also deteriorated, having moved from a surplus in 2009-10 to a significant deficit in 2014-15”.

During that same period, learner numbers had dropped by over 30 per cent.  

The college has been approached for comment.