Dame Susan Snowdon appointed President of Point North

August 11th 2026

Point North, the community foundation for County Durham and Tees Valley, has appointed Dame Susan Snowdon DCVO, CStJ, JP, DL as its new President, recognising her long-standing contribution to public life, community leadership and civic service across County Durham and the wider North East.

She succeeds Sir Paul Nicholson, who passed away in January 2025 aged 86.
Sir Paul co-founded Point North in 1995 alongside former Lord-Lieutenant David Grant and helped shape its enduring mission to fight poverty and strengthen communities.

In its 30-year history, Point North has awarded more than £78.6 million in grants to local charities and grassroots organisations. These funds have supported thousands of local projects improving lives, building opportunity and tackling inequality across the region.
Dame Susan brings exceptional experience in public service, civic leadership and community development, alongside a long-standing commitment to improving outcomes for people across our region.

She served as Lord-Lieutenant of County Durham from 2013, becoming the first woman to hold the post. She retired from the role in 2026 after decades of service in civic and charitable life, but remains an Honorary Deputy Lieutenant of Durham. In 2025 she was appointed Dame Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (DCVO) by His Majesty King Charles III.

Her earlier career includes service as a magistrate from 1990, where she chaired both criminal and family courts. She also served on advisory and civic boards across Durham, Darlington and Cleveland from 1998 onwards.

She has been deeply involved in community regeneration and voluntary action. She was a founder member of Bishop Auckland Town Centre Forum in 2003 and chaired its marketing and events work. The group played a key role in developing the Bishop Auckland Food Festival, now a major regional event.

Dame Susan was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of County Durham in 2006 and held a national portfolio for magistrate matters within the Lieutenancy system for England and Wales. She has also supported cancer research charities and local hospices for many years.

Speaking on her appointment, Dame Susan Snowdon said: “I am honoured to take on the role of President of Point North. Sir Paul Nicholson’s vision and legacy continue to inspire everything this organisation stands for. I look forward to supporting its mission to create fairer opportunities and stronger communities across the North East.”

Joanna Barker, Chair of Board of Trustees for Point North said:
“Dame Susan Snowdon brings exceptional experience, deep community understanding and unwavering commitment to public service. We are delighted to welcome her as President and look forward to benefiting from her expertise.”

Point North continues to play a leading role in tackling poverty and inequality across the region, supporting grassroots organisations and community-led change.