Visiting Fellow Marvin Rees

Marvin Rees was the first person of Black African heritage elected as mayor of any major European city, serving as Mayor of Bristol from 2016 to 2024. His tenure was marked by a blend of political and social leadership, earning him numerous awards and an international reputation for his impactful governance.   

Marvin has been a strong proponent of the potential of urbanization to address global challenges. He delivered a TED Talk in 2022 on the critical role cities play in combating climate change. He has been widely recognised as an effective leader. He chaired the Local Government Association's City Regions Board and Core Cities UK. He is a Yale World Fellow and holds an Honorary Doctorate from Swansea University and an Honorary Professorship with the University of Bristol. In 2021 he was a recipient of the Penn IUR International Urban Leadership Award, for leaders guiding cities to sustainable, vibrant futures. He is a founder member of the Mayors Migration Council, the 3Ci and sits of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on the Future of Cities.   

Before entering politics, Rees worked with Tearfund, the BBC, and the National Health Service, where he focused on reducing health disparities. His is graduate of Operation Black Vote played a pivotal role in his journey, equipping him to navigate and challenge systemic barriers and he is a Yale World Fellow. In Jan 2024 he was named an OBE in eth New Years Honours List for services to local government. 

His leadership is rooted in his personal journey. Growing up as a mixed-race son of a single white mother in 1970s Britain, he faced racism and stigma. This shaped his commitment to social justice, racial equality, and poverty alleviation. His lived experiences drive his advocacy for inclusive policies and social mobility, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all.