Debra is a seasoned global C-level executive with over 30 years of experience across pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, digital health, and Software as a Service (SaaS). She has led five high-growth start-ups and has extensive expertise in board governance, commercial strategy, fundraising and IPO, and licensing.
Debra holds many roles, including Non-Executive Director and Chair of Remuneration at Cambridge Cognition Ltd, Non-Executive Director and Chair of Audit at SpectrumX, Chair of Lifted Ventures Project (North East Investment Board), and Grant Assessor for Innovate UK.
Debra completed a BSc in Pharmacy at the University of Sunderland in 1985.
Debra was appointed to the Board of Governors in 2025 and is a member of the Academic Assurance Committee.