Martin Pugh

Independent Governor

Board of Governors

Martin is an experienced leader of large, multi-site, multi-channel consumer businesses in highly regulated sectors, including Virgin Active Health Clubs, Camelot Lotteries, Rank Group plc and Safeway Stores plc. He has held Chair, Non-Executive Director, CEO and Managing Director positions on company boards and industry bodies.

He has particular expertise in driving business improvement and transformation through strategy development, digital scaling, operational delivery, customer-driven innovation, and people leadership.

Martin recently earned a PhD in History from King's College London, researching the international dimensions of the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution. His thesis is a case study on the interplay of nationalism, decolonisation and the Cold War in 1960s Africa, and examines the impact and legacy of colonial racial policy.

He has also taught Global History at King's, and has provided careers talks, podcasts and coaching to Arts and Humanities students wishing to go into industry.

in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021