Maureen Chowen

Areas of expertise: business and retail

Maureen Chowen has been a strong supporter of our children’s hospice Chestnut Tree House ever since it opened and became a Patron in 2008, together with her husband Michael Chowen CBE, DL. She stepped down as a Patron and joined the Board of Trustees in 2011.

Born in Southend, Maureen moved to Lindfield, Sussex in 1972 and joined Sussex Stationers. In 1976 she moved to Brighton as Director and Company Secretary of Sussex Stationers Ltd, later to be known as British Bookshops and Stationers. The company expanded to 50 stores across Sussex, Kent, Surrey, Hampshire and London. The business was sold in 2005.

Maureen’s experience in the retail sector has been very valuable in the expansion and opening of our new charity shops in East and West Sussex.

Over the last 10 years, Maureen has become involved in supporting other local Sussex charities including the Universities of Brighton and Sussex and their Medical School, plus Brighton Women’s Centre and Brighton Housing Trust, and overseas charities through Impact Foundation and Hearing Conservation Council.

Maureen has a great love for dance and began her career as a professional dancer before joining Sussex Stationers. She enjoys going to the theatre, reading and travel.