Businessman Ralph Findlay, former Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council at Keele, has received an honorary degree for his outstanding contribution to the University.

Mr Findlay, chief executive of Marston’s PLC, stood down as Chair of Council at Keele in 2018 following six years at the University.

Several large projects which were under development whilst Ralph was Chair of Council are now coming to completion, including the construction of the new Central Science Laboratories, and plans for the new Mercia Centre for Innovation and Leadership.

Ralph studied geology at Edinburgh University, and worked as an exploration geologist before joining Price Waterhouse and qualifying as a chartered accountant in 1988, specialising in financial services. In 1994 he joined W&DB (now Marston’s PLC) and was appointed to the board as finance director in 1996, becoming chief executive in 2001.

Mr Findlay said: “I was hugely surprised to receive an honorary degree, it was very unexpected. I’ve had more than enough out of being involved in various roles at Keele University, which does amazing things and touches so many people’s lives, so I’m delighted to receive this.

“To anyone graduating who isn’t sure what their next steps are going to be, my advice is not to panic, or feel disheartened about it, as the great thing is that they have a degree from Keele which will stand them in great stead.”