A principal credited with turning her college around has named her replacement after announcing her retirement.

Following talks with the chair of the board of governors, Di Gowland of Newham College announced she will retire in July after almost three years at the helm.

The principal joined the college, which has campuses in East Ham and Stratford, in July 2014 and is credited with transforming its finances and leading it through a successful Ofsted inspection.

In a message to staff, Ms Gowland described her retirement from “such a brilliant college” as “a difficult decision”. She went on to thank them for their support in turning the college around.

Paul Stephen, who has worked for colleges City and Islington as well as Westminster Kingsway, has been named as her replacement.

Commenting, Ms Gowland said: “I am delighted that Paul will be taking over as principal. His vision, knowledge and people skills are exactly what the college needs to drive it forward at this exciting time in east London.”

Paul, a trustee of the Youth United Foundation, added: “I am thrilled to be joining the college and look forward to working with staff, students and stakeholders to deliver on our ambitious plans.”

Chair of the Newham College corporation board, Andrew Clark, said: “We are delighted Paul is joining the college.

“His experience, skills and knowledge gained from working in both the public and private sector will ensure the college goes from strength to strength towards achieving its ambitious strategy of being an outstanding provider of skills and education to our community.”