Sir Martin Davidson has been appointed as the new Chair of the Board at Bournemouth University, taking over from David Furniss, who steps down after serving in the role since 2022.
Sir Martin brings extensive experience from a distinguished career that includes leading international education and cultural partnerships.
He was formerly Chief Executive of the British Council and until April chaired the Great Britain China Centre. He has also worked extensively in China and Hong Kong.
A Dorset resident for 25 years, Sir Martin has held various senior roles including non-executive director of the House of Fraser Group, Vice-Chair of Leonard Cheshire Disability, and trustee of the Dorset Community Foundation. He currently serves as Vice-Chair on the board of the Royal National Institute of Blind People.
Sir Martin was knighted in 2014 for services to British cultural, scientific and educational interests globally.
Bournemouth University’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Alison Honour welcomed the appointment, highlighting the importance of the role as the university launches its BU2035 strategic plan, which includes a focus on global partnerships and community engagement.
Sir Martin said he was “delighted” to take up the position and looked forward to supporting the university, its students and the wider region.