Ryder was previously assistant principal at Liverpool Community College and was appointed by a selection panel chaired by GMPU Leeds and Central Yorkshire branch secretary Brian Brock.
"Leeds College of Technology has an excellent reputation for working closely with the print industry," said Ryder. "We have the expertise here and I'd like to pay tribute to Jim for all the work he has done to date."
"Although his background is not in print, Peter has worked hard to know important figures in the industry," added Brock.
He added that the process involved candidates not only interviewed by the selection panel but also by the board of governors, staff, senior management and students.
Story by Philip Chadwick