Elected representative for North Jesmond ward

Particular interests in innovation and board-level strategic decision-makingTeaches strategic management to a range of audiences within executive, MBA and undergraduate classrooms.Leads the Boardroom Exercise - a unique feature of the Durham MBA which revolves around a simulated board meeting involving MBA students and experienced board-level executives. Facilitates workshops in key strategic management methodologies including business planning, scenario thinking, product innovation and value proposition design.

Responsible for developing engagement and impact across all research, education, student experience and executive education activities between the Business School and organisations, government and the public sector.

Responsible for academic direction on a triple accredited Executive MBA programme.Past responsibilities included business development and academic direction of Executive MBA programmes in the Caribbean and Germany

Senior politician responsible for a revenue budget of around £1 billion. Ensured local tax rises held below inflation for seven years by leading a corporate transformation programme that realised savings of over £100 m.Lead member for organisational development for 14.500 employees. Ensured the introduction of a council-wide equal pay scheme, annual appraisals for all staff and a workforce development plan.Responsible for a capital programme of over £300 m and property assets of over £2.5 billion. Projects included the building of an award-winning new central library, rebuilding or refurbishment of secondary schools in the city, the £170 m refurbishment of Eldon Square Shopping Centre and the acquisition and long term leasing of the former Northern Rock Tower.