Philip Whiteman

Semta Chief Executive

Philip Whiteman gained a BSc (Hons) degree in chemistry at Durham University before qualifying as a chartered accountant.  He began his accountancy career as an auditor with Deloitte and, following junior management positions, moved into the company’s training department as training manager for Scotland and the North East. He then moved to Deloitte’s London office to help set up a Business Development Group which assisted companies in raising venture capital or placing shares on the Unlisted Securities Market.

He joined Accord Publications Ltd following their USM launch and later joined the Sunday Correspondent Plc and worked in the publishing industry for five years.

Philip has been with Semta  since 1991 and was appointed Finance Director in 1997.   He has been involved in several acquisitions and disposals of businesses, and had lead responsibility for culture change and strategic planning including the bid for the SSC licence.

In August 2004, Philip was promoted to Chief Executive.  His priorities are to improve employer engagement, focus the Skills Academy on training priorities highlighted in the Sector Skills Agreement and support the successful introduction of the specialised diploma in engineering.

Philip is a keen sports follower and has been a lifelong supporter of Newcastle United Football Club.