Dr Graeme Hall has been appointed chief executive of UK Skills, the independent organisation which champions skills and learning for work through competitions, awards and events.
Dr Hall's new role is a promotion from his previous position as deputy chief executive, a post he has held since 2000.
Chris Humphries CBE, chairman of UK Skills and director general of City & Guilds, said he was "delighted" with the appointment.
“Graeme is a passionate champion of vocational skills and training; his vision and insight for the future development of the organisation will be crucial to its continued success,” he said.