Head of operations at Mary Rose Trust awarded honorary degree

Head of operations at the Mary Rose Trust and managing director of Mary Rose Trading, Paul Griffiths, has been awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Business by Solent University today (Thursday 12 July).    

Paul has worked in the heritage and tourism industry for over 20 years. He joined the Mary Rose Trust in June 2012 as the head of operations for the £35million Mary Rose Museum, which opened to the public on 31 May 2013.  He leads the strategic management of the award-winning attraction, The Mary Rose, which displays the world’s only 16th century warship.  

"I have worked with Solent for six years. It is a fabulous University – very vocational and focused on getting people into employment which is why we have worked so closely with students on internships, work experience or practical work days," Paul says.

After completing a BSc (Hons) degree in Leisure and Heritage Management, Paul worked for English Heritage in various visitor, commercial and conservation roles. He then became the Area Manager for London Historic Properties in 2005.  In this role Paul was responsible for 12 of London’s historic visitor attractions including Kenwood House and Estate, Eltham Palace, Down House and Chiswick House. 

Paul chairs the Hampshire Solent Museum Development Panel, and is a Trustee of both the Rowlands Castle Heritage Centre and Portsmouth FC Pompey History Society.  

Paul gives regular lectures on contemporary tourism at the University, and offers regular internships at the Mary Rose to students wanting to gain experience of working in the attractions management and visitor services industry.

Paul also shared his top tips with students: "Be prepared to work very hard, to turn your hand to anything, particularly early in your career. Every single day will be different and you’ll be doing all sorts, but that is what makes it fun! Most importantly, take lots of advice and listen and you can be a great success in this industry."