Alan Ritchie

Alan Ritchie serves as the Vice Principal of Finance and Infrastructure at Ayrshire College, bringing over 30 years of expertise in the further and higher education sectors across Scotland. 

Alan’s journey began at Strathclyde University, after which he trained with Coopers and Lybrand in Birmingham. During a 6-month secondment to Handsworth College in central Birmingham, Alan found his calling in education and joined Handsworth College as their Financial Controller, a role that marked the beginning of his long and successful career in the sector. 

Having experienced the dynamic landscape of the English FE sector, Alan returned to his hometown of Clydebank in 2004, where he played a pivotal role at Clydebank College during the planning and development of a new riverside campus. His leadership and vision were instrumental during this transformative period. 

In 2013, following the merger of Clydebank, Reid Kerr, and James Watt Colleges, Alan was appointed as Director of Finance and Estates, a position he excelled in until joining Ayrshire College in late 2023. 

Throughout his career, Alan has consistently driven organisational transformation and innovation. He has successfully planned and delivered major estate and IT infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on promoting and achieving Net Zero targets through sustainable practices. 

Alan’s commitment to the sector is further demonstrated by his involvement with the College Development Network, where he currently serves as Vice Chair of the Finance Directors Group, having previously chaired the group.