One of the UK’s leading economists is taking up the role of Visiting Professor at Staffordshire University
Mark Gregory is one of the UK's leading economic voices
I’m really looking forward to taking on this role at Staffordshire University, especially with its commitment to being a Civic University. It means a lot to have the chance to give back to my hometown.
Business economist Mark Gregory has over 30 years’ experience in more than 40 countries as an advisor to Governments and industry. He recently retired after spending ten years as Ernst & Young’s Chief Economist and has previously held roles at global organisations including IBM and PwC.
Mark grew up in Brown Edge in the Staffordshire Moorlands before attending the University of Manchester where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s degree in Business Economics.
In his new role Mark will support economic development, growth and regeneration in North Staffordshire and hopes to play an active role in engaging businesses and students.
Mark said: “I’m really looking forward to taking on this role at Staffordshire University, especially with its commitment to being a Civic University. It means a lot to have the chance to give back to my hometown.
“More than anything I want to be a link between business and academia drawing on my network and experience. There is a lot of talk about ‘levelling up’, so understanding what that might mean for the area and how the University can help is important. In particular, engaging with businesses in the region to help them understand the economic and policy environment and how they can benefit their own businesses and the community.”
He added: “I’m excited that the University has a focus on sustainability, poverty, digital and health. This provides students with some unique skills and I want to help them unpick the job market to understand which businesses might be interested in what they have to offer.”
Mark’s connections led to him being named LinkedIn ‘Top UK Voice’ in 2016, 2017 and 2018 which recognises individuals whose words have launched countless high-quality conversations locally, and globally.
Alongside his new post, Mark will continue to be a member of the UK Government’s Investment Trade Advisory Group and is actively involved with the Made in Stoke-on-Trent Network. Mark is also a lifelong Stoke City FC fan and recently authored the book ‘More than a Game’ which looks at the current financial problems facing the English game.
Martin Jones, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Designate, said: “We are extremely fortunate to have Mark on board. As a Civic University we not only want to transform the lives of our students but also to make a positive impact across the community, helping to regenerate the region by creating jobs and providing skills for the future. Mark’s experience, knowledge and global connections will be invaluable in helping us achieve this and furthering our vision to be a leader in enterprise education.”