Sunderland BIDs leader named visiting professor

Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), has joined the University of Sunderland’s business school in the honorary role.

She has worked in Sunderland for more than 20 years, building relationships across the city and leading initiatives with Sunderland BIDs.

Ms Appleby first became involved with Sunderland BIDs while working as head of communication at housing provider Gentoo before officially joining the organisation in 2017. She was appointed chief executive in 2021.

Dr Derek Watson, Associate Professor in Cultural Management and Professor Alex Hope, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Business and Technology at the University of Sunderland pictured with Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive at Sunderland BID (Image: David James Wood)

She said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been given this opportunity to work even more closely with the University and to build on our already strong relationship.

"This new role will allow me to engage with students and graduates to showcase opportunities within the city but to also highlight to businesses how they can take advantage of the skills and knowledge the University has across so many disciplines which can be used to help them improve and grow."

Her work extends beyond the city, serving on the British BIDs advisory board and co-chairing both the Sunderland Empire Theatre Trust and the North East Combined Authority High Streets Commission.

She is also director of Sunderland Business Partnerships.

Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive at Sunderland BID (Image: David James Wood)

Through Sunderland BIDs, Ms Appleby has led successful projects across the city centre and seafront, winning British BIDs Accreditation for governance and fostering partnerships.

Recent achievements include the launch of the Seafront BID and continued collaboration with universities and councils on regeneration projects.

Dr Yvonne Dixon-Todd, head of the school of business, management and tourism at the University of Sunderland, said: “I am delighted that Sharon is joining the team at Sunderland Business School.

"Her insight and connections will make a real contribution to our students and staff as we continue to develop partnerships with the business community. Such partnerships result in knowledge exchange, consultancy, case studies etc which helps businesses, academics and students thrive.”

Professor Alex Hope, pro vice-chancellor of the faculty of business and technology, said: “We're delighted to welcome Sharon as Visiting Professor. Her experience and connections across the city will bring real value to our students and staff.

"This partnership will strengthen both our Faculty and the community we serve, and I look forward to working together.”

Dr Derek Watson, associate professor in cultural management, said: "Sharon has over 25 years of experience working with organisations in the public sector and similar fields, and continues to make strategic impact which is evident throughout the renaissance of our city.

"Sharon’s expertise will help ensure our business modules and programmes continue to meet the needs of the evolving and dynamic commercial sector."