BLACK Country businessman Carl Richardson has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Birmingham City University in recognition of his contributions to regional and global business.

Mr Richardson, who jointly leads Richardson Capital LLP based in Oldbury, received in the award from Dudley’s Sir Lenny Henry who is presiding over his last set of graduation ceremonies after eight years as Chancellor of BCU.

After collecting the award at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall, Mr Richardson encouraged BCU graduates to remain upbeat and resilient when facing challenges in their own careers.

He told graduates: “Like business, there will be obstacles you must overcome in your own lives.

“Our world is obsessed with success and fears failure. The key is to get back up, dust yourself off and keep going. It’s only failure if you fail to try.”

Richardson Capital LLP, a multi-generational international investment firm, was founded in the 1940s by Carl’s father Roy Richardson and Roy’s twin brother Don, who died in 2007.

The business, which was behind the creation of the Merry Hill shopping centre – as well as Birmingham’s Star City and Fort Retail Park, has business interests in Europe, America and Australia.

Carl’s recognition for his work in leading the business comes some 26 years after his father and uncle, Roy and Don Richardson, received honorary doctorates from BCU for their contributions to the West Midlands, back in 1998.

Carl said: “I am extremely proud and humbled to have received this recognition from BCU on behalf of my brothers and I, building on the business legacy of my father and uncle.

“As all those in wealth creation know well, there is a constant challenge to evolve and stay relevant in business - and that can only ever be achieved through collective team efforts.

“In recent times, our own operation has shifted its focus to a range of international investment activities, guided by the efforts of our first-rate professional team.

“We remain proud of our West Midlands heritage and those business activities that are based here. We are also supportive of wider efforts to develop the regional economy.”

Roy was present to watch his son follow in his footsteps as he accepted the award on Monday (July 22).

Professor David Mba, vice chancellor of BCU, said: “Carl’s leadership and global vision embodies the values and aspirations of our university.

“We hope our students can draw inspiration from the success of Carl Richardson and his family, who have shown that Midlands’ businesses can thrive on the international stage.”