Educated at the University of Aston in Birmingham, Gordon began his career as an engineer and surveyor in the construction industry.

He became Personnel and Training Manager before moving to the Distributive Industry Training Board as a training advisor.

He was a Senior Lecturer in FE before setting up Gordon Franks Training in 1982, which employs 35 specialists delivering Apprenticeships, Pre-Apprenticeships, School Apprenticeships and Foundation Learning.

Gordon is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.