Sunrise Trustee - Ian Harwood - Sunrise Multicultural Project

Ian Harwood

Role on the Board: Trustee

Joined Sunrise in: 2009

Expertise: Governance, Charity Sector, Community Development, Business, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Background: I have lived in Banbury since 2010 and I have spent much of my professional life leading governance and project delivery across a wide range of sectors including automotive, retail, distribution, hospitality, energy, utilities, telecommunications, financial services and regulated public service. Over the years, I have worked with organisations of all sizes, helping them strengthen their structures, improve their services and deliver change that genuinely benefits people. Besides Sunrise, I also serve as a Trustee for Banbury Charities and Friends of Frank Wise and as both a Town and District councillor, which keeps me very busy and, more importantly, closely connected to the community and the people who make it what it is.

Why I Joined Sunrise:

I became a trustee because Sunrise is a genuinely special part of Banbury, a place where people from all backgrounds feel welcome, supported and represented. I wanted to contribute to an organisation that has so obviously been a lifeline for so many families and help strengthen the structures that enable Sunrise to continue its important work.

What Do You Enjoy The Most About Being Involved With Sunrise?

The sense of community! Sunrise has a warmth that you feel the moment you walk through the door. I really enjoy meeting people, hearing their stories and seeing how the organisation brings different cultures together in such a positive, practical way.

Favourite Place To Visit:

I once worked in both India (Mumbai) and Japan (Tokyo) in the same year; I would love to go back to both countries.

Favourite Hobby:

Watching rugby union, especially Northampton Saints, England and the British and Irish Lions matches.

Favourite Book, Film Or TV Series:

Book: The Moor’s Last Sigh by Salman Rushdie
Film: The Godfather
TV Series: The Big Bang Theory

What Is One Thing You Hope Sunrise Achieves In The Future?

I would love to see Sunrise expand its reach even further, offering more programmes, deeper partnerships and new opportunities for local families; I truly believe that there is huge potential to grow while keeping the same welcoming, community‑led spirit.

What Motivates Or Inspires You?

I am inspired by pretty much everything I could never have achieved myself, whether it’s great art, literature, music, philosophy, scientific breakthroughs or remarkable acts of bravery and athletic achievement, so quite a lot. My main motivation is a simple wish to make a difference, no matter how small, whenever and wherever I can.

What’s One Interesting Fact That People May Not Know About You?

I once worked for GCHQ.

If You Could Have Dinner With Anyone, Living Or Historical, Who Would It Be?

Alan Turing.

Tea or Coffee!?

Both!

Favourite Quote Or Motto:

“The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits.” Albert Einstein

Favourite Food:

My wife’s home-made chilli is my favourite meal, but I also love Indian, Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Italian cuisine… and at the risk of sounding immodest, my home-cooked Sunday roast deserves a special mention too!