If you want to become a CEO, research shows University of Cumbria is top in the north

The University of Cumbria is the highest ranked university in the north, and 5 in the country, for students to go on to hold senior leadership positions after they graduate, with 12% of its alumni going on to become a CEO or MD. In addition to ranking 5 for the number of CEOs/MDs the university has also ranked 18 for the number of its graduates who become small business founders.

The research, commissioned by Hitachi Capital Invoice Finance, analysed data from nearly 8.5 million students across 121 UK universities to find out which universities produce the most CEOs and managing directors, and which produce the most small business founders.

London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) top the list, producing the highest number of CEOs and MDs in the country, closely followed by University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Soas University of London and then Cumbria.

University of Cumbria Vice Chancellor, Professor Julie Mennell said: “We are delighted to be ranked as the top northern university and 5 in the country for producing CEOs and MDs.

“Being ranked as 18 for the number of our graduates who become small business founders is also a huge achievement, and a testament to how hard we have worked to embed entrepreneurship and innovation throughout the university. 

“We recently established our Institute for Business, Industry and Leadership and with appointments from industry, as well as academia, the institute focuses on addressing regional sector needs.

“Whilst it is clear from this latest research that we are already making a difference, we are intent on doing more and I am confident our university will continue to further its impact for our region's economy.”

Full details of the Hitachi Capital Invoice Finance study can be found HERE.

Picture - University of Cumbria Vice Chancellor, Professor Julie Mennell