25/07/2024

Gary Mellor has been made an Honorary Doctor by Staffordshire University for his business achievements and the support he provides to graduates.

The award bestowed on Gary is Honorary Doctor of Laws honoris causa (Hon DLaws) in recognition of ‘his hard work, enterprising spirit and boundless energy in nurturing two enormously successful Stoke-on-Trent businesses,’.

As a Staffordshire University alum, the Honorary Doctorate award also acknowledges the time Gary gives back to the university, inspiring the next generation of students and supporting graduates as they embark on their careers.

Gary is Senior Partner at Beswicks Legal and Director of Beswicks Sports. He started his career 42 years ago as a Legal Executive at Beswicks Legal and completed his law degree at night school at what is now Staffordshire University, before qualifying as a dispute resolution solicitor.

In 1999, Gary launched global sports management agency Beswicks Sports, combining his passion for sport with his legal expertise.

Gary represents top flight footballers, sports people and football clubs. He is ranked among the elite sports lawyers by the Legal 500 and is an FA registered intermediary and a member of the British Association for Sport and Law.

On receiving is Honorary Doctorate Gary said: “It’s a huge honour to receive this award. I am both grateful and humbled to be recognised by Staffordshire University.

“The team at the university works tirelessly to bring communities together and has numerous programmes, events and awards that recognise and reward success, inspiring others to be confident and ambitious. I am immensely proud to consider myself part of the Staffordshire University family.”

Gary received his award at a graduation ceremony at the King’s Hall in Stoke-on-Trent. In his acceptance speech Gary addressed graduating students telling them, “Don’t let anybody tell you you can’t do something. Just take it with both hands.”