Our Leadership Team

Bridge School of Business is led by an Executive Team with experience across strategy, academic management, governance, operations, marketing, recruitment and student support. Together, they help shape an institution that is focused on high-quality teaching, inclusive practice and helping students move forward with confidence.

Our leadership team brings experience from across higher education and industry, including both established and newer providers. That gives us a practical understanding of what works well, what needs to improve and how to build a business school that is clear in its purpose, responsive to change and centred on students.

We use what we have learned across the sector to stay focused on what matters most: a strong student experience, courses that lead somewhere and outcomes that make a difference.

Leadership Team

Craig Chettle MBE

Chief Executive Officer

Craig Chettle MBE leads BSB's strategic direction, working closely with the Board, civic leaders, employers and partners to shape the organisation's long-term vision and impact. Having founded Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies and built it into one of the UK's leading specialist education providers, Craig brings decades of experience connecting education with industry. He is passionate about creating opportunities through learning and ensuring education leads to meaningful careers, stronger communities and lasting social impact. His focus is on building partnerships that help students, employers and society thrive together.

Gurpal Singh

Chief Operating Officer

Gurpal Singh has spent more than 20 years leading and growing higher education organisations. He is responsible for BSB's day-to-day operations, working with partners and colleagues to make sure the organisation runs effectively and continues to grow. Throughout his career, Gurpal has helped establish and develop new education providers, improving the way they operate while keeping students at the centre of every decision. He is passionate about creating practical, sustainable ways of working that support staff, strengthen partnerships and give students the best possible experience.

Professor Zahir Irani

Provost

Zahir is an internationally recognised academic leader with an extensive career in senior executive higher education roles. A two-time winner of the prestigious Times Higher Education Business School of the Year award, and strong local civic leader, he has served as Chair of the Bradford Economic Recovery Board, and is known for his forward-thinking and innovative approach.

Leila Gold

Director of Marketing & Recruitment (Consultant)

15yrs+ of experience in Education Marketing - Leila is responsible for brand positioning, marketing and recruitment.

Will Naylor

Director of Governance and Academic Quality

Will brings 25 years of senior leadership in higher education. He is recognised for expertise in governance, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and securing degree‑awarding powers for new providers.

Ian Rule

Director of Finance

Responsible for financial stewardship, planning, and sustainability.

Greg Vaughan

Director of Estates

Oversees campus facilities and estates strategy, ensuring safe, sustainable, high‑quality learning environments.

Vacant Role

Director of People and Organisational Development

Leads workforce strategy and development, fostering a high‑performance culture.

Vacant Role

Director of Student Recruitment

Vacant Role

Director of Student Services

Dick Hetherington

Academic Registrar

Responsible for academic administration, compliance, and student records.

Phil Williams

Head of Technology and Systems

Manages digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and technology services to drive efficiency and innovation.

Jim Fowler

Company Secretary

Gavin Riordan

Head of Finance

External Members

Prof. Kai Georg Peters CMgr CCMI

External Academic Board Member

Professor Peters is a senior HE leader with extensive international experience in business school management and executive education. He has held key roles at Ashridge Business School, Hult International Business School, Coventry University, and the Rotterdam School of Management. A published author and Chartered Manager, Professor Peters is recognised for his work in leadership development and curriculum co-design in HE.