Kathryn Baker to become CEO

Following 30 years of service, the Chief Executive of SS&L, Susie Simon-Norris, has announced that she will be retiring this spring. Susie has been the driving force of the organisation since 2011 and led the move to establish SS&L as a Community Interest Company in 2015.  She began her time with SS&L as a tutor and has had a variety of roles including District Manager, Head of Finance and MIS and Senior Manager for Foundation and Community Learning. 

The current Deputy Chief Executive, Kathryn Baker, will take over the role from 1 March. Kathryn has vast experience in a variety of teaching and management roles and has previously worked for Bridgwater & Taunton College and Somerset County Council. Kathryn joined SS&L in 2015 as Director of Curriculum & Business Development, before being appointed to Deputy Chief Executive in 2020. 

Kathryn says, “I’m thrilled to be given the opportunity to lead SS&L and to continue in our mission to change lives through learning. I feel privileged to work alongside the amazing staff at SS&L who have such a positive impact on our learners and their communities.”  

Aside from working at SS&L, Kathryn lives with her family in Wells and fills any spare time with her two dogs.