Petroc CEO and Principal resigns

Dr. Sean Mackney has stepped down from his role as Principal and CEO of Petroc, concluding his time with the college effective July 5.

Dr Mackney was with the college for five years having joined in 2019. 

In his resignation statement, Dr. Mackney reflected on his time with Petroc as both rewarding and challenging:

He said: “The role of Principal and CEO at Petroc has been immensely rewarding and challenging in equal measure. I have tried to bring energy, ideas, and belief in the immense capacities of those who commit to learning, to create solutions to all the situations we face. However, as we approach the end of the Petroc 2025 Strategy and begin looking to what comes next I believe that it is time for another to take that next step forward.

“Petroc has an important role to play in the community, helping to build a prosperous future and to give learners hope and the knowledge and skills to turn that hope into a reality that will change their fortunes and those of future generations.

“I wish you good luck and look forward to seeing you all working together in partnership to deliver for our learners, county, and communities in the coming years.”

The Board of Governors expressed gratitude for Dr. Mackney's dedication to PETROC, its students, and the North Devon community during his leadership. 

They acknowledged his strategic contributions and commitment to the college's success.

They said: “The Board of Governors extended their gratitude to Sean for his unwavering dedication to Petroc, its students, staff, and the North Devon community over the past five years. They noted he has shown great commitment and creativity in working towards sustaining the College and its success.”

The college, which serves up to 11,000 students each year, has appointed Mr Kurt Hintz as Interim Principal & CEO, effective from August 19.

Until then, Dr Jason Jones, Deputy Principal, will oversee operations.