Nearly half a century after arriving at The University of Manchester to study Economics, I’ve seen remarkable change – in the world, in business and in Manchester. Throughout it all the University has remained at the forefront. It could be said that during my time as a student, Manchester became my world. It was here that I met my wife, Simone, who was studying for a law degree, and where I gained the foundations to build my career in accountancy and banking.
A community for global change
During my professional life I’ve seen the world become ever more complex. There are many challenges – not least climate change, health inequality, responsible technology and productivity – that are accelerating, interconnected and urgent. They are challenges that require bold ideas, bright minds and global partnerships. Challenge Accepted, Manchester's first global fundraising and volunteering campaign, invites our international community to be part of that response.
This is an opportunity for our alumni community to come together and accelerate the progress Manchester is making toward transforming innovative ideas into positive, tangible outcomes for society.
My career has taken me to Europe, the US, the Middle East and Asia, but Manchester remains close to my heart. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to return to the institution and to sponsor a Manchester undergraduate. This was more than a gesture; it was a chance to help a talented young student unlock her potential. With a first-class law degree and an impressive legal career ahead of her, the impact of that support was humbling and proof that investing in someone’s future can change the course of their life.
Of Manchester and for the world
Manchester has a proud record of not only academic excellence, but also a commitment to opening doors for those who might otherwise be excluded. Simone and I have continued to champion Manchester’s mission, backing groundbreaking initiatives in teaching and research. We’ve been privileged to support one PhD scholarship in Regenerative Medicine and another furthering efforts to tackle pancreatic cancer. I use the word privileged because I have immense respect and admiration for the researchers and teams at Manchester. Simone and I feel that we could never do what they do, but we are able to help facilitate some of their work. And that is a real privilege and source of pride.
Every opportunity we help create is a step towards a brighter, healthier future for all. In 2019, I was delighted to take on the voluntary role of Chair of the University’s Global Leadership Board. It’s given me the chance to help strengthen Manchester’s connections around the world, encourage giving and offer advice on future ambitions.
A global call to action
Manchester has a truly global community – the largest of any campus-based university in the UK, with more than 585,000 former students across 190 countries. Now, we invite every one of you to join us in taking on the defining challenges of our time by harnessing your unique talents and actively contributing to a future shaped by innovation, collaboration and positive change.
There are so many ways to help. It could be by joining our community of alumni volunteers, giving your time to mentor a recent graduate, or inspiring the next generation of Manchester students. Or you can choose to make a gift that will help us fuel discoveries, student success and real-world impact, such as supporting Professor Petra Hamerlik’s pioneering research into the rapid diagnosis of brain tumours, funding undergraduate scholarships so financial barriers don’t hold back talent or supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs to turn ideas into global solutions.
Whether you give your time, expertise or philanthropic support, you help scale transformative research, catalyse innovation and empower the brightest minds to lead change.
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