Business Beats Cancer North East

Dr. Suzannah Harnor, Chair of Business Beats Cancer North East

Suzannah is a Senior Research Associate in Medicinal Chemistry at Cancer Research UK's Newcastle Drug Discovery Unit, based at Newcastle University where her work is focussed on finding new, novel and kinder treatments for precision oncology, targeting cancers that respond poorly to current therapies. Working in a group whose research is directly funded by Cancer Research UK, Suzannah understands the critical importance of fundraising. She is proud to represent the Charity and is passionate about connecting the public and the research community, using her unique position to bridge the gap between cutting edge research and vital supporter engagement.

Graeme is the managing director of Wearside Executive, an executive chauffeur service based in Washington. He brings with him life experience of dealing with cancer at 18 years old and dealing with its after affects for the last 20 years. This gives him the motivation to take on this new role and with the rest of the board, continue the work of previous years and raise money for the Newcastle Research Centre.

Linda is the Chief Executive Officer of New College Durham Academies Trust. With nearly 30 years of experience in secondary education, Linda previously served as a headteacher before stepping into her current leadership role four years ago. She is passionate about educating the next generation on the profound impact cancer has on individuals, families, and communities. Linda strongly believes in the importance of fundraising to support vital cancer research, including the pioneering work carried out by research teams based in Newcastle.

Kirsty is a fully time qualified chartered marketer, strategy and marketing effectiveness specialist at O, an award-winning marketing agency based in the heart of Newcastle. Kirsty has always been passionate about fundraising for Cancer Research. This started after she lost her dad at 18 following a long battle with bowel cancer and has since helped to raise thousands of pounds through her workplace teams and personal fundraising activities. Her family history of cancer is hereditary, meaning some of her siblings are battling or have battled the disease, so she is really passionate about helping to drive the vital funds that will support other families just like hers.