Teesside University Chancellor and business leader Mr Paul Drechsler CBE has been awarded an Honorary Degree from Trinity College Dublin.
Mr Drechsler was conferred with a Doctor in Laws alongside former US Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, who was also honoured at the ceremony.
After graduating from Trinity College Dublin with an Honours Degree in Engineering, Mr Drechsler went on to forge a hugely successful business career, which began on Teesside where he worked for ICI for 10 years. He then held various senior positions, living in Brazil, the USA and the Netherlands, which concluded with five years as Chief Executive of one of ICI’s principal international businesses and as a Main Board Director.
Mr Drechsler is currently the Vice-President of the CBI, following his three years as President. He is also the Chairman of the Bibby Line Group and was previously Chairman and Chief Executive of one of the UK’s largest construction firms, Wates Group.
Mr Drechsler has maintained close links with Trinity College Dublin, chairing the Business School Development Steering Group and as a member of its Global Advisory Council.
He was installed as Chancellor of Teesside University last year, vowing to use his experience to help Teesside become one of the world’s leading universities and build its global reputation.
Commenting on his Honorary Degree from Trinity College Dublin, Mr Drechsler said: “I am delighted to receive the Honorary Degree. I have fond memories of being a student and what I learnt during my time at Trinity has helped to shape my career. To be recognised in this way is an extremely proud moment.”
Professor Paul Croney, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Teesside University, said: “On behalf of Teesside University, I would like to offer our congratulations to Paul on receiving his Honorary Degree.
“It is always special to be recognised by the institution at which you studied and this is another fantastic accolade in what has been a truly exceptional career.”
Photo:
(back L-R)
Dr Patrick Prendergast, Provost; President of the Confederation of British Industry, Paul Drechsler, Doctor in Laws; Archivist at the Irish Architectural Archive, Ann Rowan, Master in Letters; US philanthropist Dr James Simons, Doctor in Science.
(front L-R)
Former US Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Doctor in Laws; Dr Mary Robinson, Chancellor of the University and Physicist & Cofounder of the Young Scientist Exhibition; Dr Tony Scott, Doctor in Education.