Initially working for and sponsored by IBM, Steven began his studies in Management Science in 1987, spending his placement year in project management for a new Dutch factory for specialist materials company Rexam PLC.
Discussing his time at university, Steven said: “One of the great characteristics of studying at Loughborough is that it produces graduates who are grounded in academic theory but also learn how to apply that in real-world workplace roles. That learning happens through initiatives like case study projects, guest lecturers, the Distinguished Speaker Series and the very well-supported placement year programme. My experiences on placement were an essential part of shaping my employability and subsequent career.
“One of the reasons I’m still involved with Loughborough is that many of the strongest features and values that were present during my time here have been retained over decades. These are being built upon with additions such as the new consultancy project modules for many courses, which offer students hands-on, practical experience of working with real-world businesses. Everyone I meet at Loughborough wants to get involved, apply themselves and be a good team member.
“At Loughborough, I had the opportunity to study a venture capital module, with the investor 3i being the main case study at the time, with guest lecturers and opportunity to gain specific knowledge and skills. Three students from that module secured roles with 3i who provided experience and training which really shaped the course of my career, specialising in technology investments and building my expertise with entrepreneurial companies.
“From a personal standpoint I also met my wife at Loughborough, and she got me involved in providing funding and support to great causes like the Development Trust Scholarship programme. At one of the fundraising events we attended, I happened to start a conversation with the then Chair of the Strategic Advisory Board about joining and contributing further to the Business School.”
Upon being invited to consider the role of Chair of the SAB in 2024, Steven was swayed by the vision of the Business School developing into the first choice for purpose-led organisations and individuals. “The strategy for ‘Progress with Purpose’ represents a fundamental shift in global business practices, emphasising principles around equality, cooperation and sustainability. It’s a commitment to building a better world and aligning business activities with broader societal values—a philosophy that resonates deeply with the Loughborough ethos.
“In 2013 I focused on being a professional non-executive chairman of software and data businesses led by their founders, as well as a tech for good investment fund. That’s given me the opportunity to be involved in tens of businesses, most embrace purpose as well as impact measurement. That experience has highlighted how businesses who meet the challenge and opportunity of being purpose driven benefit from attracting the best talent, including graduates who are now seeking companies who reflect their values and drive for change.”
Steven also shared his key advice for students and graduates: “Maintain your curiosity, I can’t overstate the importance of understanding the value of teamwork and the skills you bring to the table. Something essential I’ve found over the course of my career is developing an analytical mindset, taking a data-driven approach to building solutions and making decisions, avoiding preconceptions or unconscious bias.
“Don’t over plan your career, university is a time to learn and try new things, to work out where and who you want to be. Have an idea of what knowledge and skills you want to develop in employment, but don’t be afraid to seize opportunities as they arise; sometimes they will offer experiences and expertise that you never imagined.”
Looking to the future of Loughborough Business School, Steven explained his enthusiasm for the new UK SCALE Centre initiative that is putting the University at the heart of supply chain innovation: “Organisations around the world are operating with an ever more complex and interconnected supply chain, from what we wear, consume, use, and need for manufacturing. Connecting to the MIT Global SCALE Network as the sole UK node is a huge achievement for the School. This Centre offers us an unprecedented opportunity to act as a connector for businesses, developing the next generation of supply chain talent, best practice and innovation.
“Understanding the fundamentals of digital technology and data analytics is vital for supply chain management; these skills are also broadly applicable across sectors up to the most senior levels. As someone who has spent extensive time working at a board level, the ability of board members to define the problems business needs to find solutions for and effectively allocate resources is key.
“Supply chain professionals weren’t typically represented at board level, but now companies recognise that they are essential to success. That’s why the foundation of the SCALE Centre is coming at such a timely moment for UK based businesses. I’m excited to be able to support its development as we forge a path forward for the future of supply chains.”
Congratulations, Steven.