Dr Maurice Duffy appointed as visiting professor at University of Sunderland

Tynemouth-based, leadership specialist, Dr Maurice Duffy – whose clients include members of the Australian cricket team who competed in the World Cup – has been appointed visiting professor of innovation and entrepreneurship at University of Sunderland.

Dr Duffy, who has a PhD in change and transformation, has strong ties with the university and for the last six years has run an executive master business administration (EMBA) five-day programme for a mix of PHD and MBA students, focusing on change and innovation.

Dr Duffy frequently travels around the world and is recognised as one of the top coaches on mindset and change. He works with FTSE100 board members and coaches elite sports people, including Olympic champions and premiership football players. He is currently working with members of the Australian cricket team to improve mental toughness and create a winning mindset. He is also assisting high profile political figures in Westminster to develop resilience and presence.

Dr Duffy, said: “Average performers prepare to start, elite performers prepare to finish. There is an assumption that people working at a high level already have a winning mindset but this is often not the case. My job is to shift a person’s mindset so they deliver elite performances.

“Mentoring young minds is a passion of mine and I have thoroughly enjoyed having the opportunity to do so through my EMBA course and my appointment as visiting professor will allow me to build upon what I have already achieved with the university. I look forward to seeing how our partnership develops over the coming years and take great pride in my connection to such a well-regarded seat of learning.”

Dr Duffy has previously worked as European HR director for Nortel Networks and was also executive vice president at Manpower. He has worked in consultancy since 1999 with clients including Hewlett Packard, Google, Barclays and Rio Tinto, for whom he delivered executive learning in over 20 countries. He has also worked extensively with the NHS. He is currently chairman Blackswan Group.

Professor Lawrence Bellamy dean of the faculty of business, law & tourism, University of Sunderland, said: “We are delighted to appoint Dr Maurice Duffy as a visiting professor of innovation and entrepreneurship. Not only does Maurice have a distinguished international career with an exceptional reputation within his field for supporting high-profile companies and individuals alike but he has also been invaluable in contributing to our executive programmes with his fantastic insights and challenging sessions. Maurice is a great asset to us and this recognition of his excellence and tireless support for our work is truly deserved.”

Maurice will next be speaking in Newcastle on 18 September at ‘Step Forward – Elite Mindset Performance’, chaired by his wife, Karen Lee. Speakers include MP Lia Nandy, Rob Elliot, goalkeeper for Newcastle United, Olympic champion swimmer, Chris Cook and former Newcastle player, Mike Williamson.