Canny Conversations Explores the Future of Skills with City & Guilds CEO Kirstie Donnelly MBE
A new episode of the Canny Conversations Podcast, hosted by our Co-Founder and CEO Safaraz Ali, features an exclusive and timely conversation with Kirstie Donnelly MBE, Chief Executive of City & Guilds – and offers rare insight into one of the most significant transitions in the UK skills sector in recent memory.
In October 2025, City & Guilds announced the sale of its awarding and training business to global certification provider PeopleCert, a strategic decision aimed at securing the organisation’s long-term future while expanding its global reach and capability.
In this episode, Kirstie reflects on the thinking, governance, and leadership behind the move – and what it means for learners, employers, and the sector more broadly.
Why This Conversation Matters
At Pathway Group, we believe in creating spaces for open, honest, and strategic dialogue – especially at a time when the UK’s post-16 education and skills landscape is undergoing deep change.
This episode of Canny Conversations is more than just a leadership story – it’s a systems-level conversation about:
- Relevance in the age of digital credentials and AI
- What it takes to lead a legacy institution through transformation
- The role of awarding bodies in shaping UK PLC’s future workforce
- How to protect mission while modernising structure
Kirstie speaks with rare clarity about the long-term stewardship behind the PeopleCert acquisition, describing it not as a departure from purpose, but a bold step to future-proof it.
“Standing still would have been the greater risk. This was about ensuring that City & Guilds could remain not just trusted – but transformative,” she explains.
Insights for Providers, Employers and Sector Leaders
The conversation offers valuable learning for FE colleges, independent training providers, employer partners and policymakers – especially those navigating their own questions of sustainability, innovation, and alignment.
Safaraz explores with Kirstie the wider implications of the deal:
- What does it mean for the UK skills market?
- How do we rethink awarding bodies in a modular, global world?
- What lessons can we all take from this approach to leadership under pressure?
A Pathway Group Perspective
“This episode was a masterclass in values-based leadership. Kirstie didn’t just explain what happened – she shared how the decision was made, why it mattered, and what it says about where the sector needs to go. It’s the kind of conversation we need more of – strategic, human and honest.”
Safaraz Ali, CEO and Co-founder of Pathway Group
At Pathway Group, we continue to convene cross-sector voices to shape the future of skills, employability, and opportunity. Canny Conversations Podcast is part of that mission – giving leaders a platform to share not just headlines, but what happens behind the scenes.
We invite colleagues, partners, and learners to explore this important conversation and share it across your networks.