A leading accountant has followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and become a member of Darlington College’s governing board.
Chris Owen, an Audit Senior at Clive Owen & Co LLP in Darlington, will be using his expertise in the education field to play a direct role in the future of the college.
Chris has been with Clive Owen & Co for two years and is at the forefront of the accountancy firm’s burgeoning education department, which offers advice, support and financial guidance to independent schools and academies.
The firm already has close links with the college and Chris was delighted when they approached him to join the board, particularly as it was a role his father, Clive Owen, and grandfather, Norman Park, had held previously
"It’s a real honour to be on the board at Darlington College,"
said Chris. "The college is a focal point of the town and the standard of education and facilities it offers are outstanding. To be able to get involved with its future and have an insight into key decisions is very exciting for me."
Chris said he was looking forward to bringing a different perspective to the college given his business experience in the further education field and an understanding of the issues affecting students.
"The links between education and business are becoming even stronger and colleges are recognising the need to prepare students for the commercial world when they leave,"
he added.
"It is essential that colleges give their students support in a range of interpersonal skills so they have a good chance of gaining employment."
Tim Grant, Principal and Chief Executive of Darlington College, said: "It is my pleasure to welcome Chris as a new governor at the college. His expertise and outlook will enhance further the qualities of our strong governing body.
Chairman of the board of governors, Alasdair MacConachie, said: "I would like to welcome Chris to the board which continues a family tradition. Clive Owen is a family firm with a commendable reputation and it is great to have someone as young as Chris adding value to the college’s vision."
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