Queen’s University Belfast has this afternoon conferred an Honorary Doctorate on former Manchester United captain, broadcaster and entrepreneur Gary Neville at a special ceremony on campus. 

Mr Neville received the degree of Doctor of the University in recognition of his outstanding contribution to sport and his significant work in business, education and philanthropy. 

The ceremony included a formal citation delivered by Declan Kelly, founder and CEO of Consello, with whom Gary works closely as part of the Consello Group. Mr Kelly, a Queen’s Honorary Professor and Honorary Graduate, hosted Gary at a sold-out leadership lecture in Whitla Hall earlier this year, which raised vital funds for the Senator George J. Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice. 

A Premier League Hall of Fame inductee, Gary enjoyed a remarkable 19-year career with Manchester United, making 602 appearances and lifting eight Premier League titles, three FA Cups and two Champions League trophies. He remains England’s most capped right-back with 85 international appearances. 

Since retiring from professional football in 2011, Gary has built a diverse business portfolio spanning property development, hospitality, education, media and sport. He co-founded Relentless Developments, GG Hospitality and Buzz 16, and is a driving force behind UA92, the higher education institution in Manchester dedicated to personal development, skills and employability. His recent appointment as a partner at the Consello Group reflects his growing influence as a business leader. 

President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said: 
“Gary Neville has shown what is possible when talent and discipline come together with purpose. His achievements on the pitch are matched by his commitment to creating opportunities for young people through education, skills and enterprise. Gary embodies values that speak directly to Queen’s mission, particularly our ambition to widen access and prepare students for the future world of work. We are delighted to welcome him to Queen’s as an Honorary Graduate.

“Gary’s influence extends far beyond elite sport. His championing of character, resilience and opportunity aligns strongly with Queen’s Strategy 2030, particularly our pillars on Education and Skills, Global Reputation and Partnerships, and Social and Civic Responsibility.” 

Reflecting on the award, Gary Neville said: 
“It is a tremendous honour to receive this recognition from Queen’s University Belfast. My work in education and supporting young people is something I feel hugely passionate about, and I have seen first-hand the impact Queen’s has on its students and on the wider community. I’m grateful for this award and for the connection I’ve built with the University, particularly through Professor Declan Kelly who has a long-standing relationship with the University and I look forward to continuing that relationship in the years ahead.” 

Mr Neville’s relationship with Queen’s has strengthened considerably in recent years. During his visit earlier this year as part of the Declan Kelly Leadership Lecture Series, he met students from Queen’s Business School and the School of Law to discuss leadership, entrepreneurship and the transition from elite sport to business. 

Rory McLaughlan, a Queen’s Business School graduate and founder of the Mystery Shirt in a Box ecommerce business, was one of the students Gary met during his earlier visit. Rory had presented Gary with an SV Werder Bremen shirt, prompting Gary to later mention the young entrepreneur on his podcast – a shoutout that helped double the company’s sales. The pair met again today following the ceremony, with Gary congratulating Rory on the continued success and growth of his business. 

The Honorary Degree was conferred during Queen’s Winter Graduation celebrations in Belfast. 

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