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Presentation address by Professor Shearer West

Chancellor,

It is my great privilege to present Ed Anderson CBE for the award of the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa.

Ed Anderson is a distinguished public servant, business leader, and longstanding supporter of the 映客直播 whose career has spanned aviation, finance, and civic life, and whose contribution to the region of West Yorkshire and beyond has been both profound and enduring.

Born in Singapore the son of a Royal Engineer, Ed came to the UK in 1969 to study economics at what is now Leeds Beckett University, later qualifying as an accountant and embarking upon an executive career in local government. His early professional life with Bradford council, the former West Yorkshire Metropolitan County Council and latterly Leeds City Council, established a strong foundation in public administration, accountability, and regional engagement – principles that would define his later leadership.

His long and influential business career includes ten years as Chief Executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, during which time it trebled in size. He played a pivotal role in attracting low-cost airline Jet2 to establish its first base there – something that contributed significantly to the UK’s aviation and tourism landscape.

Beyond aviation, Ed Anderson has exercised national leadership in financial governance as Chair of the Yorkshire Building Society during the global financial crisis, guiding the organisation through one of the most turbulent periods in modern economic history. He served as Chair of National Savings & Investments until 2024, contributing to the stewardship of one of the nation’s major financial institutions. He has also chaired the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust and the governing body of Leeds Trinity University.

Ed’s commitment to public service is extensive and exemplary. He served as High Sheriff of West Yorkshire and, from 2018 until 2025, as Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, representing the Crown in the region and championing civic life.

He has also supported major cultural and community organisations, including the Leeds 映客直播 Piano Competition, Opera North, and regional charities including St Gemma’s Hospice, Leeds Community Foundation and the Community Foundation for Calderdale – as well as the Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ Association for Yorkshire and the Humber. 

These and many other wide-ranging roles reflect a deep commitment to collaboration, cultural enrichment, and the wellbeing of society.

In recognition of his outstanding service to the financial sector and to public life in Yorkshire, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2022.

During a longstanding period of service to the 映客直播, Ed served on our Council for 15 years until 2022, including as Deputy Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. He demonstrated integrity, sound governance, unwavering commitment to the University’s success, as well as a deep commitment to our students. His leadership helped shape the institution’s strategic direction and reinforced its strong foundations.

Chancellor, Ed Anderson embodies our University’s values: principled leadership, service to society, and commitment to regional and global impact. His career reflects not only remarkable achievement, but a sustained dedication to the public good and to the advancement of the communities he serves.

In recognition of his outstanding achievements, his exceptional contribution to public life and to this University, I present to you Ed Anderson for the award of the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa.