A BBC boss has been made the co-chair of government’s Apprenticeship Delivery Board.

Claire Paul, director of leadership development and new talent at the corporation, has been appointed co-chair of the government’s Apprenticeship Delivery Board along with Conservative MP Trudy Harrison.

The Department for Education (DfE) said Ms Paul was appointed for her “continued support and commitment to the promotion of apprenticeships”.

Board members advise the government on how to promote apprenticeships with a view to expanding the programme.

‘Avid supporter of apprenticeships’

Ms Paul said being recognised for her contribution as a board member is a huge honour, adding: “We often link directly with decision makers and are able to support the growth of high-quality apprenticeships that underpin employers’ skills needs. As a board, we are passionate about championing and celebrating the many benefits of hiring apprentices.

“Apprentices bring new skills to the workplace and enable employers to develop the skills they need - so they are a win-win for employers and apprentices alike. I am an avid supporter of apprenticeships and, as an apprentice employer, see clearly the impact they have.”

Co-chair Ms Harrison added: “Ensuring a bright future for our children and young people is a priority for me, not least because I am a proud mum of four daughters.

“I am delighted to be sharing the role of co-chair of the Apprenticeship Delivery Board with Claire, working hard to champion the benefits of hiring apprentices while stimulating interest and take-ups in both the public and private sector.”

Apprenticeship Delivery Board members

• Claire Paul, BBC

• Sir Andrew Parmley, City of London

• Mike Thompson, Head of Employability at Barclays

• Rami Ranger CBE, Chairman of Sun Mark Ltd

• Simon Blagden CBE, Non-Executive Chairman at Fujitsu

• Julie Taylor, Director General, Head Office and Commissioning Services, Ministry of Defence

• Jason Holt CBE, Chief Executive, Holts Group

• Mark Thurston, HS2

• Danny Mortimer, NHS Employers

• Rachel Tuffin OBE, College of Policing

• Tim Cooper, United Response

• Malcolm Press, Manchester Metropolitan University

• Jayne Haines, Senior Vice President, Talent, Leadership & Organisation Development Centre of Excellence, GSK

• Suzie Welch, HR Director, Pizza Express Restaurants Ltd