Derek Lewis

Derek Lewis has held positions as chair, chief executive, and other senior positions in the fields of education, training, television, prisons, healthcare, technology, and social care, and across the private, public and third sectors, many involving working closely with government.

He is passionate about education and training, having served as Pro-Chancellor and Treasurer of the University of Essex, a school governor, a member of the advisory board of the London Business School and as chair of companies providing training, employability services and teaching staff.  He has been heavily involved in supporting people with learning disabilities as chair of Royal Mencap Society.

Derek is chair of UHI West Highland and manages his own land-based business in Morvern within the college’s region, involving forestry, farming and tourism, as well as being a founder of Morvern’s new and environmentally-friendly Nc’nean Distillery.  He is committed to maximising the contribution of rural businesses to creating sustainable and prosperous rural communities.