Chamber chair receives accolade in King's Birthday Honours
The award acknowledges John’s long-standing commitment to the North East, including supporting the growth of key sectors, particularly the visitor economy.
Since becoming chair of the Chamber’s Board in September 2020, John has offered invaluable support and constructive challenge to the executive leadership team, helping to elevate the Chamber’s standing and influence at both regional and national levels.
John Marshall said: “Receiving this OBE is a wonderful surprise and deeply humbling. I am proud to have been able to play a small part in supporting the growth, resilience and success of the North East economy.
“Our region has always been a place of innovation, hard work and ambition, whatever challenges it has faced. Many great people and organisations strive every day to create fresh opportunities, drive investment and strengthen our communities. To have the chance to contribute to that is one of the greatest privileges of my career.
“I am especially grateful to my family, friends, colleagues and partners for their unwavering support, encouragement and belief over the years. Achievements such as this are never the result of one individual alone, and I am fortunate to work with exceptional people who share a genuine passion for, and belief in, our unique region. Their passion and hard work deserve equal recognition today. They inspire me more than they will ever know.
“This honour strengthens my commitment to them and to continue championing the North East, its next generation of leaders and businesses who will deliver our future success.”
John also played a significant role in the Chamber being named Chamber of the Year in 2023 and provided invaluable leadership and support to members as they navigated the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic.
John McCabe, chief executive at the North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “On behalf of everyone at the Chamber, I offer heartfelt congratulations to John on receiving an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours.
“This honour is so richly deserved. Throughout his career, John has shown great dedication to supporting businesses, creating opportunities and championing the North East economy with real passion and integrity. His leadership and commitment have made a lasting difference to so many organisations and communities across the region.
“Beyond John’s professional achievements, what has always stood out is his generosity, humility and belief in people. He has consistently encouraged others to succeed, brought people together and worked tirelessly to ensure the North East continues to thrive and grow.
“This OBE is a fitting recognition of John’s many years of hard work and service, and we are all incredibly proud to see his lasting contribution recognised at the highest level.”
John has provided significant governance and charitable leadership across the region, creating a lasting legacy for communities, businesses and future generations.
As former chair and non-executive director of NewcastleGateshead Initiative, now Experience North East England, John has played a major role in the growth of the North East’s economy, positioning Newcastle and Gateshead as a place to visit, live, meet and invest. He was instrumental in unlocking the untapped potential of the regional visitor economy.
Ian Thomas, interim chief executive at Experience North East England, said: “This could not be more well deserved. John has recently stepped down as chair of NewcastleGateshead Initiative as we enter a new era as Experience North East England.
“The legacy and impact he made for this organisation and our region is immeasurable and this accolade for his services to the economy could not be more well timed. He continues to be an instrumental force and voice for the regional economy and our key sectors. It is huge recognition of the difference he continues to make for local communities and the people of North East England.
“John’s contribution over the past 14 years will leave a lasting legacy for our organisation and our region is a better place as result of his leadership, passion and diplomacy. We know he will continue to be a huge advocate for the North East as a place to visit, enjoy, live, work and invest.”
A pillar of the local community, John is also on the board of directors at believe housing and is chair of trustees at the Newcastle United Foundation.
Other roles include deputy chair of North East Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust and chair of its subsidiary North East Ambulance Service Unified Solutions, chair of St Chad's College, Durham University, vice chair of Northumberland Church of England Academy Trust, regional ambassador for the King’s Trust and Lay Canon of Newcastle Cathedral.
