Andrew Brownlee is CEO in SOLAS. Since taking up the role in September 2019, SOLAS has launched an ambitious new FET strategy, Transforming Learning, a new literacy and numeracy strategy, Adult Literacy for Life, and he has overseen the inclusion of FET & apprenticeship options as part of the CAO decision-making process. He has also overseen the development of new Strategic Performance Agreements between the ETBs and SOLAS which set out FET system targets in employment, progression, transversal skills development, focus on key skills needs and lifelong learning.

Prior to his appointment as CEO, Andrew was Executive Director for Strategy and Knowledge at SOLAS, where he played a key role implementing reforms to support a more integrated system. Andrew joined SOLAS from the Higher Education Authority where he was Head of System Funding and led the development a new funding model for Higher Education. Prior to joining the public sector, Andrew had a long and distinguished career in management consultancy, working for PwC, PA Consulting and Fitzpatrick Associates. He has a Masters in Economics and Accounting from the University of Edinburgh.