Lynn Thackway is currently Vice Principal of the Barnfield Federation in Luton, which runs a large Further Education College, several school academies and a Studio School. She started her career as a Maths teacher and worked in Colleges in Newcastle and Sheffield before migrating south.

The Chair of the Governing Body, Robin Morley, stated, “I am delighted that the Board of Corporation unanimously voted last night to appoint Lynn Thackway as the new Chief Executive and Principal of City College following Phil’s retirement. Lynn will bring to the College and the City her wide experience and previous successful track record in Sheffield and Luton in working with students, learners, schools, business and communities. She will take forward our ambitious five year business plan to become an outstanding college in all areas by 2015, working in partnership with the schools and businesses from across the city”

The outgoing Principal, Phil Frier, commented that 'Lynn Thackway comes to City College with a great track record. Her experience in management roles at Sheffield and Barnfield Colleges will have given her the background to enable her to be an outstanding Principal. Barnfield has a national reputation for innovation and working with its local communities, so I know Lynn will be engaging with the city to make a real difference to people’s lives'.

In reaction to her appointment, Lynn said, "I am absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to lead such an outstanding, vibrant and forward thinking college as City College Brighton and Hove. The college has seen rapid improvements under the current principal and I intend to continue the work achieved so far in placing City College at the forefront of learning for young people, adults and businesses."

Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership was represented by City College governor Tony Mernagh on the selection panel for the appointment.