Stephen Bolton awarded honorary degree
Tuesday 22 November 2011
Former student Stephen Bolton received an honorary degree in recognition of his outstanding success in business and his contributions to the UK and world economies.
He received his honorary degree of Doctor of Business during a ceremony at Southampton’s Guildhall on Wednesday 23 November.
Following the completion of a full-time accountancy foundation course and professional accountancy exams at what is now Southampton Solent University, Stephen has enjoyed a highly successful 30-year career in finance.
The Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, began his career with Unilever Plc where he worked with industries as diverse as fish farming, animal feeds, ice cream, personal care and margarine.
Stephen finished his career at Unilever Plc as the Finance Director of Unilever UK before moving to Diageo in 2006. Here he has enjoyed a variety of roles including Finance Director of Global Supply and Head of Global Audit & Risk. Last April he was appointed to the role of Group Controller.
He advised the assembled graduates to: "Go with your passions. If you are doing something just for the money then I don't believe you will be happy.If you are passionate about what you are doing the other things will look after themselves."
More than 2500 students are graduating with degrees and professional qualifications during 10 ceremonies at Southampton guildhall from 21–25 November.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE MEDIA OFFICE ON 023 8031 9040
Southampton Solent University offers more than 19,000 students over 200 qualifications ranging from HND to PhD, in subjects such as maritime education and training, fashion and design, media and television, music, sport and leisure, business, IT and technology.
Solent has set its fees for 2012 at £7,800, rather than at the maximum level, because it is determined to achieve a fair balance between the commitment to offering places based on student potential - irrespective of family income - and the need to continue to improve the experience of the students attending the University