The University of West London (UWL) has awarded Resham Singh an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of his outstanding contribution to business leadership, innovation and economic growth. The honour was conferred during the University’s graduation ceremonies at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on 23 July.
Engineering and enterprise
After graduating in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Southampton, Resham joined Russell Finex, a leading manufacturer of industrial sieving and filtration equipment.
Over the course of his career, he held a variety of roles across the business before being appointed Group Sales and Marketing Director in 1997, Managing Director in 2011 and Chairman in 2023.
Global expansion and success
During Resham’s leadership, Russell Finex significantly strengthened its international presence. Alongside established operations in Belgium and the United States, the company expanded into India and China, creating a truly global footprint.
Under his tenure as Managing Director, the company achieved remarkable growth. Group turnover increased almost threefold from £17.4m to nearly £50m, while profits grew more than eightfold, from £1.5 million to £14.5 million. During this period, they purchased new properties in Belgium, India and the UK and their bank balance grew significantly so that they were financially stable and could make investments without having to borrow.
Recognition for excellence
Since 2014 Russell Finex has received over 30 awards from various organisations including trade associations and local Chambers of Commerce for being best for Innovation, Export, Manufacturing, Marketing and social media, Employer of the Year and Business of the Year.
Introducing Resham to the ceremony, Pro Vice Chancellor Dr Suresh Gamlath said:
“For the University of West London, Resham’s example carries particular significance. He represents a globally ambitious enterprise that remains firmly rooted in West London: innovative, inclusive and committed to place.
“His career shows our graduands that enduring leadership is measured not only by what an organisation achieves, but by the opportunity and shared prosperity it creates.”
Advice for those starting work
Addressing the graduands, Resham shared practical advice drawn from his own professional journey:
“If your boss asks you to do something, do it. Look at it as an opportunity. If you turn it down the opportunity may never come again.
“Work hard and smart and the opportunities will definitely come! Don’t restrict yourself by thinking that you will work only in an area based on the course you studied.”