The Academy was delighted to welcome as a guest Mr Tim Willis, the man who in 1988/89 turned the plans for Macmillan College into a reality.

The Academy was delighted to welcome as a guest Mr Tim Willis, the man who in 1988/89 turned the plans for Macmillan College into a reality. Previously, Mr Willis had served in the Army and worked as a newspaper executive in South Asia as well as in this country. He was in charge of the Middlesbrough Evening Gazette for many years. He is also known for his work with the St John Ambulance Brigade.

As Project Director, his job was to meet all the deadlines necessary for the College to be able to open in September 1989. It was a huge task. Not only did he have to liaise with architects, builders and contractors; he also oversaw the recruitment of our first 196 students as well as our first members of staff even before there was a finished building to show them.

After the project was complete, Mr Willis took on the role of Director of Administration at Macmillan and remained as a valued member of staff for several years. 

During a tour of the buildings, several of which were built after his retirement, he enjoyed a Macmillan lunch in the dining room.