We are delighted to share the news that Mr Mark Pendlington DL has been appointed by His Majesty The King as the new Lord-Lieutenant of the County of Suffolk. He will formally take up the role on 15 April 2026, following the retirement of Clare, Countess of Euston CVO.

Mark brings a wealth of experience across the public, private and voluntary sectors, with a longstanding commitment to supporting communities across Suffolk. His career has spanned industry, education, economic development and national and regional charitable organisations.

As Patron of Bury Drop In, Mark has been a passionate advocate for people experiencing homelessness and vulnerability in West Suffolk.

Mark previously served as High Sheriff of Suffolk in 2023–2024, where he focused on inclusion, community resilience and the vital role of the voluntary sector. In 2022, he chaired the Festival of Suffolk to mark Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, bringing together thousands of people and hundreds of communities across the county following the Covid-19 pandemic.

In addition to his patronage of Bury Drop In, Mark currently serves as Pro-Chancellor of the University of Suffolk, Chair of the Suffolk Business Board, Senior Non-Executive Member of St Edmundsbury Cathedral Chapter, and Chair of Cefas, the government’s international marine science, environment and fisheries research organisation.

Mark lives near Sudbury with his partner, Richard.

This announcement is based on information originally published by the Prime Minister’s Office, 10 Downing Street, and is reproduced with permission.