Honorary degree for CEO of T.M.Lewin
Geoff Quinn, CEO of iconic British shirt maker T.M.Lewin received the honorary degree of Doctor of Fashion from Southampton Solent University today (Friday 22 November), in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the retail industry.
He joined the quintessentially British shirt, tie and suit makers in 1980, as one of only six employees based at the original Jermyn Street store.
Geoff was appointed CEO in 1993, at a time when T.M.Lewin had only three stores. Today he runs 91 stores in the UK as well as a successful international online business. As part of an ongoing international expansion plan, there are now 53 stores across Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa with more scheduled to open later this year.
As well as being the driving force behind the iconic store, Geoff offers his expertise, advice and support to unemployed and disadvantaged young people throughout the UK, via two leading youth charities.
Through a series of inspirational talks and job placement schemes, in partnership with football-based charity Street League, he helps disenchanted young people find a route into full-time employment.
Geoff also continues to work closely with The Prince’s Trust to help nurture the next generation of young entrepreneurs and support the Trust’s youth schemes, whilst helping to raise funds through the sale of exclusively designed Prince’s Trust ties and accessories.
On receiving his honorary degree, Geoff Quinn comments, “I’m very proud to accept this honorary degree of Doctor of Fashion from Southampton Solent University.
Geoff added, "Since I started my career, the world has become a much smaller place. With the internet opening up the fashion industry, the opportunities are now endless. To all the Solent School of Fashion graduates - you have your degree, now you need to go and change the world; it’s your turn.”
The university will be awarding honorary degrees to academics and professionals who have made an outstanding contribution in their field of expertise during its annual graduation ceremonies which will take place at Southampton Guildhall from 18-22 November 2013.
More than 2500 students will be graduating with degrees and professional qualifications in subject areas ranging from journalism to sport science, fashion to yacht-design, and business management to TV and film production.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE MEDIA OFFICE ON 023 8031 9040 or press.office@solent.ac.uk
Notes to editors:
About Southampton Solent University
Southampton Solent University offers more than 23,000 students over 200 qualifications ranging from HND to PhD, in subjects such as maritime education and training, fashion and design, media and television, music, health, sport and leisure, business, IT and technology. The university was awarded the 2013 Quality Assurance kitemark for quality and standards of teaching and learning. Solent was voted one of the most creative universities in the UK in a Which? University 2013 poll of students.
Tags:
