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Gerard Byrne was appointed as the SRC's new Director of Finance and Planning at the start of the new term in September. He has taken up the post at a time of significant budgetary pressure for Northern Ireland's Further Education sector.
His immediate priorities include finalising the College's 2026/27 budget allocation once the Executive has agreed the overall Northern Ireland budget. He will also be gaining an in-depth understanding of the College's operations, priorities and financial position.
Byrne has held a number of roles in financial management, internal and external audit, risk management, governance, performance management, health and safety, and compliance. He originally studied for a degree in Property Investment and Development before moving into audit and finance after graduating.
The Further Education sector faces external budgetary pressures and the potential for financial shortfalls, but Byrne remains optimistic about the outlook for education and the role colleges play in supporting their local communities and the wider economy. He is keen to work collaboratively with colleagues in the College and the wider sector so that SRC is well positioned to meet the challenges ahead while continuing to deliver high-quality education and training for students and the local community.
The post covers more than finance and governance. It also includes responsibility for the College's IT infrastructure, course scheduling systems, compliance and examination processes. The Director of Finance and Planning also oversees the Business and Economic Engagement function, which works closely with local businesses and communities. This allows SRC to make a significant contribution to the economic development and regeneration of the local and wider region.
Byrne sees the role as making sure the College is financially sustainable, well governed and well planned, while providing the support needed to deliver the best possible outcomes for students, staff and the wider community.
Reflecting on his own career, he also offered advice to new students starting out and to those considering returning to education to upskill or reskill.
"My advice to young people, and to anyone considering upskilling or reskilling, is to remember that there is no single path to a successful career. You don't have to have everything figured out from the beginning, and it's perfectly normal for your ambitions and priorities to change as you gain experience and your circumstances evolve.
"The most important thing is to be open to opportunities, invest in yourself and approach whatever you choose to do with commitment. You don't have to have your whole career mapped out, but whatever path you take, give it your best, keep learning and take pride in doing things to the best of your ability."
