Mark Gregory has officially stepped into the role of TCA Board Chair

We are thrilled to announce that Mark Gregory has officially stepped into the role of Board Chair for The Challenger Academy.

Mark brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to social impact that aligns perfectly with our mission. A renowned business economist, Mark’s professional career was spent at PwC, IBM and EY (Ernst & Young), where he was their Chief Economist and worked extensively with the EY Foundation. His work has taken him to over 40 countries, advising on economic policy from Argentina to Papua New Guinea.Since retiring from EY in 2021, Mark has focused his energy on engaging "purposeful businesses” to improve economic and social outcomes in his home region of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire and to share the learnings nationwide. His dedication to opening pathways for disadvantaged young people is at the core of everything he does.

Beyond his economic expertise, Mark is a true multi-hyphenate:

🧠 Academic & Advisor: Visiting Professor at University of Staffordshire, Advisory Board member at Keele University and Advisor to The Good Economy.

💡 Civic Leader: Chair of the Stoke-on-Trent Economic Growth Board

📈 Engaged nationally: Non-Executive Director on the UK Endorsement Board.

🎭 Arts Supporter: Trustee of the Claybody Theatre.

⚽ Author: Writer of 'More Than a Game: Saving Football From Itself'.

Please join us in giving Mark a warm welcome! We are incredibly lucky to have his vision, expertise, and passion leading our board as we enter this next chapter.