University of Sunderland appoints new chair

The University of Sunderland has appointed pharmacy leader Mark Burdon as chair of its board of governors, with his term beginning on August 1.

A Sunderland graduate, Mark brings extensive experience in healthcare and governance, having founded a successful pharmacy chain and held senior roles nationally and internationally.

He has served on the University’s governing board since 2021 and succeeds outgoing chair Farooq Hakim.

Mark said: “As an alumnus of the University, I’m incredibly proud to be appointed chair of the board of governors. 

“It’s an honour to support the executive team in delivering a truly transformative experience for all our students.

“Sunderland is a city on the rise, and I take great pride in the university’s central role in its regeneration. 

“We are a university with a proud legacy and heritage, recently shortlisted for the THE University of the Year award. 

“Building on this momentum, I am committed to advancing our strategic ambitions – ensuring that students and staff remain at the heart of everything we do.”

Farooq added: “It’s been fantastic working with Mark over the last few years. 

“I’m proud of what we achieved together and I’m confident under his leadership the University will continue to thrive. 

“As a fellow graduate I know he shares my passion to build on our recent successes and continue to deliver life changing experiences for our students while making a positive contribution to our city and the wider region.” 

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.