A COLLEGE is looking for a new £165,000-a-year principal and chief executive to take over at the helm.

Blackburn College principal and chief executive, Dr Thomas Moore, has announced that he will be retiring in September 2018 after almost five years in charge.

More than 50,000 students, aged 16 and above, have studied and gained qualifications during his time at the Fielden Street college, which has led to over 90% of those students progressing into further education or into work.

Commenting on his time with the college, Dr Moore said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to work with so many dedicated and professional staff and together, provide life changing opportunities for our students.

"My thanks also to the many employers who have worked closely with the college to assist our graduates gain employment.

"I wish governors, staff and our partners well in the future.”

Reflecting on Dr Moore's time at the college, the chair of the board of governors Phil Watson has hailed him for turning the school into a 'modern college'.

He said: “Thomas can look back on his time at Blackburn College with pride. During his tenure the college campus has been completed and is one of the most modern in the country.

"The college has also significantly improved its financial position from the one he inherited and various alliances have been formed such as the Strategic Alliance with Lancaster University and Blackburn with Darwen Council as well as with the East Lancashire Hospital Trust, Northcote and Blackburn Rovers.”

Now the college is looking for a new 'visionary strategic leader' to take over from Dr Moore, who will earn up to £165,000-a-year along with other benefits, which have not been revealed by college bosses.

The amount of money earned by the chief executive has increased nearly £13,000 in the last three years after the TaxPayers' Alliance revealed Dr Moore was the best-paid leader of any school or college in East Lancashire after receiving £152,608-a-year in 2015.

Dr Moore's replacement will have overall responsibility for the college and be required to 'sustain the school's financial performance', create 'key strategic partnerships' with universities of international standing and promote 'excellence in teaching and learning'.

The closing date for applications is 9am on Friday May 11.