High Sheriff lays down the law of business to MBA students

The High Sheriff of Northamptonshire, James Saunders-Watson, addressed MBA students at the University of Northampton in a special guest lecture.

James, a senior banker with JP Morgan and owner of Rockingham Castle, shared his experiences as an MBA student and provided advice from over 35 years in business at a special event for first and second year MBA students.

Recently selected High Sheriff, an appointment he will hold for one year, James’ role includes being the ceremonial head of the legal profession in the county and a major supporter of local charities.

Eton-educated James’ career includes 10 years’ military service, after which he studied for an MBA to cross-train himself for a career in banking, as well as managing his family estate.

Following the guest lecture, James said: “This was a very impressive and diverse group, the feedback was excellent and there were plenty of positive and intelligent questions posed. Many students are concerned about what they are going to do next, with the difficulty of the current job market. It was good to offer pointers as to where they can go next.

“For me, gaining an MBA was an essential part of my career development, I needed something to convert from one career to another. An MBA gives you peripheral vision. It opened up entirely new avenues that otherwise would have been shut.

“I think from the students’ point of view, it is really important to hear the thoughts from someone with real-life business experience and has been through an MBA programme, and to give them some confidence and support going forward.”

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