Exeter Chamber of Commerce has appointed Mike Blakeley, Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement at Exeter College, to its board. The appointment comes as Exeter is recognised as the City of Apprenticeships, with the fastest growing number of Apprenticeships, topping 57 other cities across England.

“I hope to build links between our network of employers and the Chamber,”

Mike Blakeley, Exeter College Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement

In his role at Exeter College, Mike Blakeley oversees the delivery of 2,000 Apprenticeships at any one time, from Penzance to Paddington. His team works with 950 businesses, with Apprentices gaining skills and training across 90 different subjects. In addition, Mike works with some of the players of Exeter Chiefs to develop their second career skills. He has been instrumental in the launch of GOAT Lager, a partnership between England International Luke Cowan Dickie and former chief, Harry Strong.

Matt Roach, Chair of Exeter Chamber of Commerce and Industry said: “We are pleased to welcome Mike to the Chamber board. Mike will bring a vast range of skills and experience to the board, helping us to continue to work with all sectors of business and particularly to ensure the pivotal link between business and education is at the centre of our work.”

Mike Blakeley said: “I am delighted to join the Exeter Chamber board. I hope to build links between our network of employers and the Chamber, and to focus on how the Chamber can help to develop the next generation of business leaders in the city.”