A Bricklayer in a Shirt and Tie: Jamie Purser’ Path to Authentic Leadership

A professional leads a lively discussion with a diverse group in a contemporary workspace. Bright lighting and plants create an inspiring atmosphere for generating ideas and collaboration.

From leaving school at 16 with no qualifications to leading Newham College London, Jamie Purser’ journey is one of resilience, self-belief, and the power of encouragement. In this episode, Jamie shares how a bricklaying job set him on a path to leadership, why authentic identity matters in senior roles, and how further education can transform lives.

His story is a reminder that ambition and opportunity can come from unexpected places — and that anyone, with the right support, can achieve more than they imagined.

Speakers

Dan Taylor

Managing Director

I am the Managing Director of Morgan Hunt and Pentagon Talent and have held this position since January 2017. Over that period, I have overseen a full-scale change programme that has led to a more defined offering to the businesses long standing clients, a full change of brand, a new CRM and several adoptions of new and innovative tech and the opening of a new business in Scotland. All this has contributed to returning this long-standing business to profit.

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Jamie Purser

Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Newham College of Further Education

Jamie Purser is Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Newham College London. With over 20 years in Further Education, he has led the college to become one of the highest performing in London, with strong outcomes for learners. Jamie played a key role in the merger with NewVIc Sixth Form College, creating one of the most inclusive and wide-ranging post-16 and adult education offers in the capital. Passionate about accessible and transformative education, he is committed to helping every student achieve their potential.

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