University of Central Lancashire’s chair of the board David Taylor stands down

David Taylor became the chair of UCLan in 2014 Pic: UCLan

The chairman of the University of Central Lancashire’s board is to step down after almost a decade in charge.

David Taylor CBE is described as ‘the figurehead and mastermind’ behind the initiation, development and delivery of the University’s £200million Preston campus masterplan, which began in 2015. This included the University Square changes.

Mr Taylor is being succeeded by his deputy Dame Sue Ion.

UCLan Vice-Chancellor Professor Graham Baldwin said: “On behalf of the University, I want to thank David for the fantastic contribution he has made in helping UCLan to be the best we can be and to ensure we continue to improve the student experience.

“David’s willingness and capability to take on additional responsibilities in an entirely voluntary capacity throughout his Chairmanship have contributed significantly towards the success of the University over the last decade, and its growing global presence.”

David Taylor at the inauguration of UCLan Chancellor Ranvir Singh Pic: UCLan

David, who was awarded a CBE for services to the community of Lancashire in 2007 and is the current High Sheriff of Lancashire, said: “UCLan is a close-knit community where everyone has a vital role to play in providing opportunities to people from all backgrounds, to support local communities and deliver research that has real-world impact.

“I’m proud to have been Chair of the University Board for almost a decade and play a supportive role in helping UCLan to strengthen its reputation and grow into a truly international institution.”

“I wish my successor, Dame Sue Ion, every success in her new role.”

Proud Prestonian Dame Sue, who was recognised in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours and awarded one of the higher orders of chivalry, a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire (GBE), for services to science and engineering especially for encouraging underrepresented groups to study science and engineering subjects and for the international impact she has achieved on energy strategy, both in the UK and internationally will begin her role as Chair on Wednesday 1 November.

Dame Sue has enjoyed a distinguished career in the energy sector. She worked for British Nuclear Fuels from 1979 to 2006, rising to the roles of Technology and Operations Director and Chief Technology Officer.

Throughout her career, Dame Sue has been a trusted adviser and consultant to the Government on energy matters, with a focus on nuclear energy. She served on the Prime Minister’s Council for Science and Technology and on two of the UK’s Research Councils as well as chairing the Government’s Nuclear Innovation Research Advisory Board from 2014 to 2016.

Dame Sue said: “I’m immensely proud to have the opportunity to lead an institution with such a long and successful history as it heads towards its 200th year in 2028. I’m inheriting an extremely ambitious and optimistic team at UCLan.

“Everyone connected with the University has an unwavering focus on transforming lives, innovating our approach to teaching, and increasing our reputation in research and its effect on wider society.”

“Rest assured that during my tenure students will remain at the very heart of everything UCLan aims to achieve, and I’ll strive to build upon David’s outstanding legacy.”