An education charity has paid tribute to its chief executive, David Gallagher, who has died aged 45 following a short illness.

NCFE (formerly the Northern Council for Further Education) announced this week that Gallagher, who led the charity for eight years, had passed away.

The charity said Gallagher “played a pivotal role” in growing the organisation during his tenure while focusing on its founding purpose to promote and advance learning.

“Throughout his career, David was a passionate champion of education and skills and was dedicated to improving opportunities for learners,” the charity said in a statement.

“His leadership, integrity and commitment to NCFE’s mission have left a lasting legacy across the organisation and the wider sector.”

NCFE added: “At this difficult time, our thoughts and sincere condolences are with David’s wife and their two sons.”

Founded in 1848, NCFE said its executive team would continue to assume additional leadership responsibilities in the near term, with support from chair Deborah Jenkins.

Ian Bauckham, chief regulator at Ofqual, said he was “deeply saddened” to hear of Gallagher’s death.

“He accomplished so much for qualifications and the vocational sector, and had the potential to do so much more. His work will leave a lasting positive legacy,” he wrote on social media.

Earlier this year, Gallagher wrote about his cancer diagnosis.

“On sharing the news with close colleagues and friends it’s been really eye opening just how many people have lived, and continue to live, through the impact of cancer in their lives,” he wrote.

“And the very many messages of support and encouragement I’ve received from people have been truly humbling, heartwarming and reassuring. I’ve taken a huge amount of strength and inspiration from people’s words.”