College Chair of Governors to Receive Honorary Degree from the University of Derby

Chair of Governors, Stephen Smith is set to receive an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration (Hon DBA) from the University of Derby at their Buxton campus graduation later this month.

Having founded the East Midlands Business (EMB) group in 2005, Stephen has led significant change in the region, contributing to the area’s economic prosperity for 15 years, before joining the College’s Board of Governors in 2024.

Upon joining the College last year, Stephen brought with him a career of brand marketing and general management in both small and large companies, as well as several non-executive roles in skills and economic development. Most notably, he served as the previous Chair of Governing Council at the University of Derby, where he still continues his involvement as a board member of the University’s Business School Council. 

On his appointment as Chair of Governors at the College, Stephen said: “I’m very passionate about education, as I’m a big believer that skills and qualifications are a key enabler for people to achieve their life goals. Everyone should have access to an education that suits their needs and ambitions, and I was impressed by Loughborough College’s ethos and commitment to its students.”