Burberry Chairman and Experian founder is new university Chancellor

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Sir John Peace is a founder of Experian and Chairman of Burberry. (Photo: NTU)

Burberry chairman Sir John Peace has been named as the new Chancellor of Nottingham Trent University.

Sir John is also the Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, representing the Queen locally.

Besides his involvement with the fashion giant, his long business career has included roles in technology, financial services and retail.

He was previously chairman of the university’s board of governors from 1999-2009 and is also a trustee of the Djanogly City Academy in Nottingham.

He has held chief executive roles at organisations including financial services company Experian, which he was a founder of, and GUS plc.

Sir John takes over the role from Kevin Cahill, the former Sport Relief Chairman, who was Chancellor of the university for three years from 2014.

Sir John said: “I am delighted to be returning to a role at Nottingham Trent University. It is a fantastic institution and one that I know well from my time as a member of the Board of Governors.

“The University has much to be proud of, and makes a hugely important contribution to the ongoing growth and cultural development of the region.”

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Sir John will officially be installed into the role in December. (Photo: NTU)

Neil Goulden, pro-chancellor and chair of the board of governors at the said: “I am very pleased that Sir John will be taking up the role of Chancellor at NTU. His vast experience across the world of business along with his strong connection and commitment to the region’s growth and future success make him the perfect candidate for this important role.”

Sir John will be officially installed in his new role at a special ceremony on December 8 during the winter graduation period.

Nottingham Trent University, main campus, Goldsmith Street.

The role of Chancellor involves ceremonial duties, including conferring degrees at graduation ceremonies and representing the university at events.

Sir John was knighted in 2011 for services to business and the voluntary sector, and was awarded an honorary doctorate in business administration from NTU in 2015, in recognition of his contribution to the civic and commercial life of the city and county.