Mayor's biography

The Right Worshipful the Mayor of the City of Sunderland, Councillor Robert Hutchinson

Sunderland has been my home all my life. I was born in New Silksworth in September 1952, when rationing was still in force, and I lived there for thirty-six years before moving to Ashbrooke, where I have lived ever since. My father was a miner, and my mother was a nurse, and their work ethic and commitment to helping others have influenced me throughout my life.

I attended the local secondary modern school and left without O Levels or A Levels, although I often joke that I did acquire a spirit level instead. Determined to make my own way, I started my first business, Optic Innovation (now Innovation Power), while still a teenager. The company has remained based in New Silksworth ever since and, more than fifty-eight years later, continues to go from strength to strength.

Innovation Power supplies temporary electrical power across the country for music festivals, major sporting events and national occasions, including visits of the Tall Ships to the UK. What began as a small local business has grown into one of the country's leading providers in its field.

Alongside my business interests, I have a keen passion for Sunderland's history and am proud to be a member of the Sunderland Antiquarian Society.

In May 2026, I was elected to Sunderland City Council as Ward Councillor for the Farringdon and Silksworth Ward the community where I have lived and worked throughout my life. To then be nominated and elected as Mayor only weeks into my first term as a councillor was one of the proudest moments of my life.

I am delighted to serve alongside Councillor Glenda Hall as Mayoress and Councillor Jannine Morrow as Deputy Mayor.

For me, Sunderland is its river, its sea and, above all, its people. I will represent this city with pride and speak positively about it wherever I go.

I have chosen to donate my councillor and mayoral allowances to good causes across Wearside. The three charities I am supporting during my year in office are Veterans in Crisis, Sunderland Headlight and Pawz for Thought.

Sunderland has one of the largest veteran communities in the country, and I am proud to support those who have served. I lost an uncle during the Second World War and believe that our veterans deserve continued support after their military service.

My mother worked as a psychiatric nurse for more than forty years, hence my commitment to mental health charities such as Sunderland Headlight. My support for Pawz for Thought is equally personal; I have known Lynne Ebdale for many years and have long admired her dedication to rescuing and caring for animals and birds across Wearside.

Throughout my mayoral year, I look forward to working with these charities, raising awareness of their invaluable work and helping them secure the funding they need. My hope is that the money raised will directly benefit local people and local causes here on Wearside.