West Lothian College Appoints Interim Principal

Hazel Brady, who is currently the Vice Principal of Learning and Attainment, will take on the role as Interim Principal from December 2025, leading the college through to the end of the academic year, in July 2026.

Hazel has held numerous roles since joining the college as a business lecturer in 2006. She moved from Faculty Director for Business, Creative and Enterprise to Vice Principal of Learning and Attainment in June 2024.  Prior to her time at the college, she held roles at Scottish Television and BBC Scotland.

She has played a key role in strengthening the college’s approach to high-quality learning and teaching over many years, contributing significantly to improved student satisfaction and achievement.

Hazel said: “I feel very privileged to be appointed Interim Principal and CEO of West Lothian College.  I am proud to lead such a dynamic college, building on a really strong foundation where every decision puts students at the centre, ensuring they have opportunities, support and confidence to succeed.  Our college is committed to inclusion and excellence which is guided by our values; welcoming to all, striving for better and keeping students at the centre of everything we do.

“I am looking forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, inspiring students, and valued stakeholders, where we will continue to innovate, lead with empathy, and deliver education that makes a real difference to West Lothian and beyond.

“Throughout my career, I have championed initiatives that break down barriers, promote diversity, and create spaces where people feel valued and empowered. My leadership is driven by the belief that education is a powerful force for change, and I look forward to leading the college during this next chapter.”

Sue Cook, Chair of West Lothian College, said: “As a Board we are delighted to appoint Hazel Brady as Interim Principal and CEO until the end of the academic year. Hazel is an exceptional leader who has grown with our college, and her appointment reflects the calibre of people we have within West Lothian College. It is a real strength that we can draw on such strong internal candidates who understand our values, our students, and our ambitions for the future.

“Hazel’s leadership will ensure stability with an ongoing focus on delivering high quality learning for our students while continuing to serve our community.”

As part of this transition, Todd Lumsden has been appointed as Vice Principal of Learning and Attainment, replacing Hazel Brady. Todd brings extensive experience in education and leadership, having served as Director for Care, Health and Sport at West Lothian College since 2022.

He previously worked as Curriculum Manager for Sport at New College Lanarkshire and has a background in professional football coaching and management, which has shaped his strong focus on teamwork and performance development.

Rachel McFadden has taken on the role of Director, replacing Todd Lumsden, and holds over 20 years of experience in health and social care education, including leadership roles at Edinburgh College before joining West Lothian College in 2019. She is passionate about improving student experience and has led innovative projects such as the award-winning Infection Prevention VR module and has a strong background in nursing and adult education.

Looking ahead, the college will launch a recruitment process for the permanent role of Principal and CEO in Spring 2026.