News and Events

Honorary Doctorate for Sainsbury’s CEO

22 November 2007

World-class business leader Justin King has received an honorary degree from BU.

Justin King, Chief Executive Officer of J Sainsbury plc, has received the honorary degree Doctor of Business Administration from BU.

Dr King is responsible for the success of several retail brands in the UK and is instrumental in turning around Sainsbury’s fortunes since his arrival three years ago.

In October 2007 the company announced its 11th consecutive quarterly sales growth, a remarkable achievement given the peaks and troughs of trading in the retail industry.

On receiving his award during our Award Ceremonies at the Bournemouth International Centre, Dr King encouraged his fellow student graduates to use their skills in communication to boost their chances of success in life after university.

David Kilburn, Head of Business Development for the School of Services Management, nominated Dr King for the award.

"Justin King is driven and determined and an inspiration to the retail sector," said Mr Kilburn. "He completely changed the culture at Sainsbury’s by listening and talking to people, developing their core values.

"I’m delighted that someone of his stature has received this accolade and it is truly deserved."

Prior to Sainsbury’s, Dr. King made a tremendous impact in the UK retail market, most notably as Managing Director with luxury ice-cream product Häagen Dazs, where he launched the virtually unknown product into the UK market. He also held executive positions at ASDA, Hypermarkets and Marks and Spencer.

His international reputation continues to rise with his recent appointment to a non-executive directorship of Staples in the USA.