University News Last updated 23 July
International businessman Carl Richardson has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Birmingham City University (BCU) in recognition of the exceptional contributions he has made to both regional and global business.
After receiving the award at Symphony Hall in Birmingham, Mr Richardson encouraged BCU graduates to remain upbeat and resilient when facing challenges in their own careers.
“Like business, there will be obstacles you must overcome in your own lives,” said Mr Richardson. “Our world is obsessed with success and fears failure. The key is to get back up, dust yourself off and keep going. It’s only failure if you fail to try.”
Mr Richardson jointly leads Richardson Capital LLP, a multi-generational, international investment firm founded in the first part of the last century in Oldbury in the West Midlands.
The business now operates in multiple regions including Europe, America and Australia.
Mr Richardson received his award from Sir Lenny Henry, who is presiding over his last set of graduation ceremonies after eight years as Chancellor of BCU.
In 1998, Carl’s father and uncle, Roy and Don Richardson, founders of Richardson Capital LLP, also received honorary doctorates from BCU for their own contributions to the West Midlands.
Roy Richardson was able to attend Monday’s ceremony at Symphony Hall to watch his son follow in his footsteps.
“I am extremely proud and humbled to have received this recognition from BCU on behalf of my brothers and I, building on the business legacy of my father and uncle,” said Carl Richardson.
“As all those in wealth creation know well, there is a constant challenge to evolve and stay relevant in business - and that can only ever be achieved through collective team efforts.
“In recent times, our own operation has shifted its focus to a range of international investment activities, guided by the efforts of our first-rate professional team.
“We remain proud of our West Midlands heritage and those business activities that are based here. We are also supportive of wider efforts to develop the regional economy.”
Professor David Mba, Vice Chancellor of BCU, added: “Carl’s leadership and global vision embodies the values and aspirations of our university.
“We hope that our students can draw inspiration from the success of Carl Richardson and his family, who have shown that Midlands businesses can thrive on the international stage.”