In this episode of Inspiring Working Lives, we sit down with Julie Kapsalis, Principal and Chief Executive of North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot). Julie shares her journey in leadership and the experiences that shaped her approach to education.
Throughout the conversation, the theme is clear: dream bigger. Julie talks about aiming high, taking on challenges that push you out of your comfort zone, and creating opportunities for students and staff to grow. She reflects on the importance of building supportive, inclusive environments where people feel empowered to innovate and succeed.
Whether you’re in further education or looking to grow as a leader, Julie’s insights show how curiosity, ambition, and persistence can help you make a real difference.
Dan Taylor
Managing Director at Morgan Hunt
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.
In 2023, Morgan Hunt was awarded the NORA award for best large recruitment business for Morgan Hunt’s online presence, The Financial Times listed Morgan Hunt as one of the top 30 British Recruitment Companies and The Recruiter Magazine will feature Morgan Hunt in their Fast 100 for 2023.
I have worked within staffing and recruitment for 28 years. I am a major supporter of APSCo, attending many events throughout the year. I am a firm advocate for greater professionalism within the recruitment industry.
Married with two daughters, outside work interests include playing the drums and supporting the Sussex Cricket Foundation by creating greater access to the sport of cricket within the City of Brighton and Hove.
Julie Kapsalis
CEO & Principal at North East Surrey College of Technology
I have worked in economic development and community engagement for the past twenty years with a particular focus on enterprise/innovation, skills, social inclusion and communications. I am experienced in Organisation Development and Change Management and am accomplished at leading large teams in delivering major programmes. I am a strong communicator, collaborator and negotiator with a track record of delivering results and exceeding targets.
At Chichester College Group I had responsibility for a portfolio of commercial businesses including a chain of childcare nurseries, examination board, commercial courses, sports facilities and international education. I was also responsible for the Group's sales, marketing and public affairs agenda - including employer engagement. In 2022 I moved to North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot) and was proud to be appointed as Chief Executive and Principal in 2022.
I have a particular interest in supporting women's enterprise and served as an advisor to the UK Government's Women's Enterprise Task Force. In 2013, I joined the Board of the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership and was appointed Chair in August 2020. I also served as Chair of Catalyst South - a grouping of six LEPs in the South East until March 2024.
I am past Chair of Chichester Chamber of Commerce and former Board Member of the Institute of Economic Development.
I am an Executive Council Member of Gatwick Diamond Business and a Member of the Aurora Academies Trust. In January 2025 I was appointed to the Executive Committee of Epsom Downs Racecourse.
