Award for West Midlands businessman

Roderick Wilkes, formerly Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and a visiting lecturer at Wolverhampton Polytechnic, was presented with an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Business Administration at a ceremony on Wednesday 11 September.

The honour from the University’s Business School was made in recognition of his regional and national contribution to the marketing profession and, in particular, his outstanding contribution to education for marketing students and professionals.

Speaking about his award, Roderick said: “It is with great honour and delight that I accept this award from the University of Wolverhampton.

“I’m particularly pleased to be honoured by a University who have a growing reputation for their engagement with the business community in the region, and who are committed to the economic regeneration of the Black Country.

“This award also means a great deal to me thanks to my association with this institution in the past.”

Roderick’s journey with The Chartered Institute of Marketing commenced in 1968, becoming National Chairman of the organisation in 1993 before being named its Chief Executive in 2007.

A Black Country lad, Roderick achieved a successful business career in marketing and general management with the GKN Group amongst others.

Formerly a Trustee and Director of The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, Roderick is Chairman of the Gray Page Group and a Vice President of the Jubilee Sailing Trust.

Roderick is also a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Marketers, a Freeman of the City of London, and a Lord’s Taverner.

Roderick’s past academic interests include being a specialist marketing lecturer at the West Bromwich College of Commerce and Industry, visiting lecturer to Wolverhampton Polytechnic, visiting speaker at Birmingham University, and external advisor to Aston University.

He is currently a member of the Advisory Board for the MSc in Marketing at Cranfield University.

The University of Wolverhampton’s graduation ceremonies take place at the Grand Theatre from Thursday 5 September to Friday 13 September 2013.

ENDS

For more information please contact Patrick Campbell in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322448

Date Issued: Thursday 12 September 2013