Remembering Pro Chancellor Mr David Laing, CBE DL

David Laing will be fondly remembered as a friend to the University and its first Pro Chancellor.

He took up the post in 2015 as the University was embarking on an ambitious programme of growth and development through the construction of its Waterside Campus. David brought his considerable experience in the construction and development industry and unrivalled expertise to the project, while his entrepreneurial background was a perfect example of dedication to inspire our students and those who met him at our graduation ceremonies through the years. Our thoughts are with his family and the friends he made in Northamptonshire and beyond during his remarkable life.

David was born into the Laing construction family. He qualified as an architect and subsequently worked with Sir Basil Spence’s London firm before setting up a private practice in Hertfordshire, as well as becoming a partner in GHM Rock Townsend.

With his knowledge of the construction industry, David became Chairman of Country and Metropolitan and was a director of Eskmuir, a quoted property company which was taken private and is the Laing family’s property vehicle. As well as being a director of a number of private companies, he served as a trustee, Chairman or President of many charities including the Northamptonshire Community Foundation, the Northamptonshire Association of Youth Clubs and Adrenaline Alley, the biggest urban sports park in the UK.

David served as High Sheriff of Northamptonshire from 2010-2011 and served as Lord-Lieutenant of the County from 2014-2020.  He was awarded a CBE in the 2024 New Year’s Honours list.

He had experience in the leisure sector, and also agriculture, being hands-on at his farm at Brigstock, Northamptonshire. He has been living in the County for over 20 years and was committed to making it known as the Heart of England.

David died on 3 March 2024.