University appoints Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL as Pro-Chancellor (Enterprise)

The University of Leicester has appointed scientist, entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL as its new Pro-Chancellor (Enterprise). The new role will help strengthen the University's engagement with business, innovation and entrepreneurship at a time when universities are playing an increasingly important role in driving economic growth and supporting regional prosperity.  

Taking up the honorary position from 1 September 2026, Dr Kotecha will act as an ambassador and advocate for the University with his own story reflecting the transformative power of enterprise. Arriving in Leicester as a refugee, he founded Morningside Pharmaceuticals Ltd from his home garage in 1991, growing the business into a global supplier of medicines serving more than 120 countries. Awarded an OBE for services to entrepreneurship, innovation and philanthropy, he is also Founder and Chairman of RandalSun Capital and holds a number of influential national and regional business, innovation and civic roles. 

A longstanding supporter of the University, Dr Kotecha received an Honorary Doctor of Science from Leicester in 2023 and has supported initiatives including the establishment of Leicester Medical School and the IntoUniversity Centre in Beaumont Leys through the Randal Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife Moni. 

Dr Kotecha said: “I am delighted to be appointed Pro-Chancellor (Enterprise) at the University of Leicester. 

"Having grown up in Leicester, the University has always been a prominent part of the city’s identity. I have seen first-hand the extraordinary contribution it makes - not only as a nationally recognised centre of academic excellence, but also as a driving force in the civic, economic and innovation landscape of our city and Country.

"I look forward to supporting the continued growth of the University’s ambitious enterprise and innovation agenda, strengthening its connections with business, industry and the wider community. 

"I am excited to work alongside the University’s leadership team to help create opportunities that translate world-class research into real-world impact, while contributing, wherever I can, to the outstanding learning, research and innovation that define the University of Leicester experience.”

Professor Nishan Canagarajah, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leicester, said: " Universities have a vital role to play in driving innovation, supporting economic growth and creating opportunities for people and communities. Nik brings exceptional experience and insight from across business, enterprise and innovation, and will be a strong advocate for the University as we continue to develop our research and enterprise ambitions." 

The appointment forms part of the University's wider Pro-Chancellor programme, which supports key areas of strategic importance through experienced ambassadors and advocates drawn from business, philanthropy and community leadership. Following the appointment of Dr Vijay Sharma as Pro-Chancellor (Community Engagement) in 2023, the University has also appointed Professor Robin Graham-Brown as Pro-Chancellor (Philanthropy), broadening the University's external influence and supporting its ambitions across community engagement, philanthropy and enterprise.