Sir Bob Murray CBE is a highly respected business leader and former chairman of Sunderland AFC, widely recognised for his transformational contribution to football and the North East.
After studying at Leeds Polytechnic (now Leeds Beckett University) and qualifying as an accountant, he built successful businesses in manufacturing and property development before moving into football leadership.
He is best known for transforming Sunderland AFC, overseeing the club’s rise to the Premier League, and delivering both the Stadium of Light and the Academy of Light, securing its long-term future.
As Chairman, he led a period of sustained growth, establishing strong foundations on and off the pitch and becoming one of the most influential figures in the club’s history.
His influence extended nationally through his work with The FA. He joined the board of Wembley Stadium at a critical stage when the project had stalled, helping bring it to completion, and later served as Project Director of the national football centre, playing a key role in the development and design of St George’s Park through to its opening.
In recognition of his services to football, business, and education, he was awarded a CBE and later knighted.
He was appointed Chancellor of Leeds Beckett University in 2012, reflecting his long-standing commitment to education and leadership development.
1972
2026
