Businessman brings a touch of class to University

Sir Peter attended the University on October 23 to deliver a key note speech at the annual Crystal Lecture on the topic ‘Building a World Class Business from Scratch.’

Over 200 people attended the event as he discussed the importance of a clear vision in building a substantial business, as well as how entrepreneurial skills provide competitive advantage. He also spoke about how to re-set perceptions on entrepreneurship and its contribution to British economic growth.

Miceal Barden, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University said: "This year's Crystal lecture by Sir Peter Rigby contained invaluable advice for the budding entrepreneur as well as lessons from Sir Peter's long and varied business career that were telling and grounded in success. 

“The Crystal lecture, now in its 21st year, continues to offer the University the opportunity to share the insights of Business leaders with our students and stakeholders."

Sir Peter is the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Rigby Group, which he founded in 1975 with £2,000 savings, the parent company for a portfolio of privately-owned and highly successful businesses operating across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.

‌Ian Myson, Director of Partnerships at CMI, said: “Sir Peter’s speech was a fantastic reminder of just how important strong values and a clear sense of purpose are to successfully growing a business. Universities like Wolverhampton have a huge role to play in supporting today’s growing businesses so we’ve been delighted to work with them on the Crystal Lecture. It has offered brilliant insights for many years and this year’s speech was no different – managers in the Midlands should be looking forward to the next one already.”

A piece of glasswork, designed by art student Tim Boswell was presented to Sir Peter as a gift from the University.

Tim Boswell is currently studying BA (Hons) Applied Arts at the University of Wolverhampton.

ENDS