Birmingham City University recognises businessman’s exceptional contribution to the region with doctorate

International businessman and investor Carl Richardson has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Birmingham City University (BCU) in recognition of the exceptional contributions to both regional and global business made by the Richardson family.

After receiving the award at the Symphony Hall in Birmingham, Carl encouraged BCU business graduates to remain resilient.

Carl said: “Today my two brothers and I lead an organisation focused on making the world a fairer, better and safer place.

“Like business, there will be obstacles you must overcome in your own lives. 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.

The award was presented by the current Chancellor of BCU, Sir Lenny Henry. This week’s ceremonies will be the last that Sir Lenny attends as Chancellor after serving as the leading figurehead of the institution for the last eight years.

Mr Richardson jointly leads Richardson Capital LLP, a distinguished 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 Australasia.

Twenty-six years ago, Carl’s father and uncle, Roy and Don Richardson, founders of Richardson Capital LLP, also received honorary doctorates from the university highlighting their own contributions to the West Midlands.  Behind the stage, Roy Richardson was able to watch his son achieve the same recognition.

Carl continued: “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. 

“As all those who are involved 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. At the same time we always remain proud of our West Midlands heritage and those business activites that are based here, and are supportive of wider efforts to develop the regional economy.”

David Mba, Vice Chancellor of BCU, said the university was proud to present Carl with the award:

“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 Midland’s businesses can thrive on the international stage.”

Alongside his business achievements, Carl Richardson has been dedicated to various esteemed roles including co-chair of the Institute for International Economic Policy’s Executive Circle at George Washington University in Washington DC, Honorary Colonel of the 4th Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (known as 'The Heart of England’s' Infantry) a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, and Freeman of the City of London.

The honorary doctorate from Birmingham City University recognises the outstanding leadership in the business world of Carl and his brothers, their unwavering commitment to the West Midlands, and their dedication to fostering economic and social development both locally and internationally.

Pictured from left to right: Carl Richardson, Roy Richardson centre and Sir Lenny Henry