Influential figure in politics and public policy receives prestigious Honorary Professorship
A key political and policy advisor who has held senior positions in both local and central Government has been awarded an Honorary Professorship at Teesside University.
Professor Michael Henson has over 30 years political experience, including advisory roles to city and metro mayors, as well as members of the House of Lords. Since 2019 he has been Chair of the UK2070 Commission’s Teesside Taskforce, which was established to explore the potential of freeports, steel, hydrogen and the wider net zero agenda to boost opportunities for people across the Tees Valley.
Professor Henson is a strong advocate of Teesside University and has been heavily involved in the recent collaboration between the University and the South African Government exploring net zero technologies. He also helped establish the Public Policy Academy at the University which will bring together civic and political leaders to give students an insight into the impact of public policy.
As an Honorary Professor, Michael will work alongside colleagues to develop projects and partnerships that build on Teesside University’s role as an anchor institution and help firmly establish the University as a leading force in levelling up and as a trusted and solutions focussed expert within the policy landscape.
Professor Henson is currently Associate Director in the Central and Local Government Parliamentary Policy Team at the global professional services firm Turner & Townsend. He is responsible for the Government Insights and Intelligence briefing programme for the business. Alongside this, Professor Henson is also a Commissioner for the UK2070 Commission, an independent inquiry into regional inequalities chaired by Lord Kerslake.
Over the last few years, I have seen first-hand the outstanding work being carried out by Teesside University and witnessed its transformational impact on the region and beyond.
Reflecting on his Honorary Professorship, He said: “It is an honour and a great privilege to receive this award from Teesside University and I am committed to supporting both students and staff to reach their potential.
“Over the last few years, I have seen first-hand the outstanding work being carried out by Teesside University and witnessed its transformational impact on the region and beyond.
“I am looking forward to building on that work and using my experience and networks to support the University in its mission to transform lives and economies.”
Professor Paul Croney, OBE, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Teesside University, said: “Michael has significant experience in the political landscape and has been directly involved in shaping public policy.
“He has already undertaken a huge volume of work for the University to build a portfolio of evidence which supports our impact as an anchor institution.
“I am sure his knowledge, expertise, drive and determination will be a huge asset to Teesside University and help shape our work across political networks and engagement within the policy landscape.”
