An Ealing resident and chartered accountant has been recognised for his three decades plus of business experience and achievements with an honorary doctorate from University of West London (UWL).
James Southgate, a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, received a prestigious honorary doctor of letters from the University of West London (UWL).
Mr Southgate has been associated with UWL for a number of years. In 2014 and 2023 he has served as a co-opted member of UWL’s Audit & Risk Committee.
For 25 years he worked at PwC, where he specialised in assurance, audit and transaction services work for large, listed groups which also saw him on secondment with Rocco Forte Hotels.
More recently, Mr Southgate became chief financial officer property group Freshwater Group of Companies where he is a member of the executive team with direct responsibility for finance, treasury, information technology, mergers and acquisitions, pension and tax strategy.
Professor Peter John CBE, vice-chancellor and president said: “I am delighted to present James, who has supported the University through a number of phases of its development, with this honorary doctor of letters degree.
“He has a wonderful ability to spot the key issues and develop his argument, and when he speaks, people listen. He has been an exceptional adviser for the University, and his extensive experience meant that all the business that was put in front of him was scrutinised carefully, and decisions made accordingly.
“And he’s also a big supporter of Brentford Football Club, of which UWL is of course a proud sponsor.”
Accepting his honorary degree, Mr Southgate said: “As a resident of Ealing, it has been a privilege to serve the University and I have been delighted to see the university flourish and grow over the years. I believe UWL is a great university which supports students in pursuing careers that benefit society.
“I have worked with some of the UK’s largest businesses and, if I have any advice for you as graduates starting new roles in the future, it is to try and take advantage of the opportunities presented to you. In my career I have taken on many different challenges and learned from all of them.”
