Skills England announced on 27 August 2026 that Sir David Bell had stood down as its Vice Chair. In a statement issued that day, he said he took the decision because of the demands of his other commitments, while retaining a keen interest in the skills system and how it works for employers, learners and the higher and further education sectors nationally and locally.

Skills England Chair Phil Smith thanked Sir David for what he described as an outstanding contribution to the board and for the time and effort he dedicated to the Vice Chair role alongside his other commitments. Smith said his insight and considered judgement had been invaluable in guiding the organisation as it worked towards bringing more cohesion, momentum and pace to a system he said had become too complex.

Sir David said it had been a pleasure to be part of the board and that he was proud Skills England had already contributed to the coherence and responsiveness needed to ensure the country has the skilled workforce it requires, now and in future.