Teesside University Tribute to Lord Sawyer of Darlington

We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of our much admired, respected and valued former Chancellor, Lord Sawyer of Darlington.

Lord Sawyer had an enduring connection with Teesside University and was a vocal champion of our mission, vision and values. He was deeply passionate about our region and had an illustrious and influential career across a number of high-profile roles.

A former trade union leader and general secretary of the Labour Party, Lord Sawyer became Chancellor of Teesside University in 2005, continuing to serve in this role until 2017.

Professor Paul Croney OBE, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Teesside University, said: “Lord Sawyer was a great friend to Teesside University, maintaining his close ties with us for many years, and serving as our Chancellor for over a decade. We are deeply saddened by his loss.

“Throughout his career, he was unwaveringly committed to improving the lives of people and played a pivotal role in bringing about positive change, leaving an enduring legacy and positive impact on his beloved region.

“On behalf of the whole Teesside University community, we extend our deepest condolences.”

Born in Darlington in 1943, Lord Sawyer worked in the engineering industry until 1971, when he became a full-time official for the National Union for Public Employees and secretary of Darlington Trades Council. He rose through the ranks and served as Deputy General Secretary of NUPE, and was instrumental in the creation of UNISON, one of Britain’s biggest unions.

He was chairman of the Labour party between 1991 and 1992 and the party's general secretary from 1994 to 1998. He was made a life peer in 1998.

Speaking shortly after his installation as Chancellor, Lord Sawyer said: "As a country we have finally grasped that it is not enough to hire 'hands'. We also need heads full of ideas, understanding and creativity; young people who can embrace enterprise and change, who can create new opportunities - just as the graduates who are starting their own businesses on Teesside University's campus are doing.

“This is the real difference between my time and now, and why I feel so much at home as Chancellor of this University. I share its mission of providing opportunities and widening access to all who can benefit from higher education. I know it is really making a difference to so many lives on Teesside and beyond. That's what makes me feel so confident about the future for Teesside.”

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