Dr Doug Gurr appointed as Distinguished Fellow

We have appointed Dr Doug Gurr, former Chair of the Board of Trustees, as a Distinguished Fellow in recognition of his commitment and leadership during an extraordinary period in our history.

The role of a Distinguished Fellow is a lifetime appointment which celebrates those who have made an exceptional contribution to our mission through their volunteering and philanthropic support. Dr Gurr stepped down from the Board of Trustees after seven years in October 2022 and is currently Director of the Natural History Museum and Chair of the Alan Turing Institute. During his time as Chair, he steered us through the Covid-19 pandemic, preserving research and ensuring that we could be there for people at a time when they needed it most. It is thanks to his leadership that, throughout these challenging times, our commitment to lifesaving research never faltered.

Key role in shaping and driving our Strategy

As Chair, Dr Gurr also oversaw the introduction of some of our biggest scientific initiatives, including the £30 million Big Beat Challenge and the launch of the Data Science Centre. Passionate about the power of research, Dr Gurr lent his expertise to supporting philanthropic campaigns to raise vital funds. His personal support of our Cardiovascular Catalyst Awards has helped power innovative projects which will have a tangible impact on patients.
With generous donations to key initiatives, he played a key role in shaping and driving our Strategy to 2030.

Elevated our ambitions

Congratulating Dr Gurr, Chief Executive Dr Charmaine Griffiths said: “I am delighted to be able to honour Doug’s immense contribution to us as our Chair for over seven years by welcoming him as British Heart Foundation’s newest Distinguished Fellow.

As our Chair, his vision undoubtedly elevated our ambitions and his leadership of our Board was critical in steering us through the toughest period in our 62-year history. On behalf of the team and the countless people whose lives we touch every day, I offer our heartfelt thanks to Doug for his leadership and enduring support as part of our family.

"It is a privilege"

Dr Gurr said: “It is a privilege to be appointed as Distinguished Fellow and continue my involvement with such a pioneering organisation. From developing innovative gene-editing technology with the power to cure inherited heart conditions, to harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence to change the lives of millions of people, the importance of our work is clear.

I am proud of all that was achieved during my time as Chair and I remain inspired by our community of supporters, research scientists and heart patients. I look forward to continuing my involvement as a Distinguished Fellow.”

"Best cardiovascular research"

Dr Sarah Clarke, our Deputy Chair said: “It is a pleasure to welcome Doug as our newest Distinguished Fellow. His pivotal role in supporting our philanthropic activity, through making introductions and championing our work, has ensured we continue to fund the very best cardiovascular research.”

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