Sir James Duddridge and John Coughlan appointed to the RCR’s Trustee Board

We’re pleased to announce the expansion of our Trustee Board, with the appointments of Sir James Duddridge and John Coughlan as lay trustees. Both will serve a three-year term from 1 September 2025.

These appointments follow an open competitive process, with Sir James and Mr Coughlan bringing a wealth of experience and expertise from various sectors to the strategic direction of the RCR.

Sir James is a Non-Executive Director of South Essex Homes and ABE UK, in addition to running his own consultancy and advisory firm Okavango. He was a Member of Parliament and served as a government minister under three Prime Ministers, working in Downing Street, Whitehall and across Africa. Sir James retired from politics in 2024. 

Prior to entering parliament, Sir James helped establish the market research firm YouGov and worked for Barclays for 10 years in the UK and Africa. In 2022, he was made Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George, awarded for public and political service.

Mr Coughlan had a successful career in engineering, leading multi-national companies. He served as Chief Executive Officer at TSP Engineering from 2014 to 2023 and previously held the role of Global Commercial Operations Director at Avery WeighTronix.

He is currently a member of the Governor’s Council NHS North Cumbria, sitting on the Finance and Performance Committee and the Quality and Safety Committee, as well as the Chair of Workington Levelling Up Towns Board.

Dr Stephen Harden, RCR President, said: “I am delighted that James and John are joining us as trustees. They bring new perspectives, insights and expertise which will greatly strengthen the Board and help deliver a more effective College for our Fellows and members.”