The CEO of an aviation firm based in Bedwas has received an Honorary Fellowship from the University of South Wales (USW).
Bob James OBE is a renowned expert in the aviation industry and founder of AerFin, a firm that specialises in second-hand aeroplane parts. He received the honour on Wednesday, 11 July, as part of USW’s series of summer graduations.
Mr James, who was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List last month, worked for Rolls-Royce, British Airways and General Electric after studying mechanical and manufacturing engineering.
Having establishing AerFin in September 2010 and after selling an 80% interest to CarVal Investors in December 2014, Mr James has brought access to significant capital and market reach which strategically positions the AerFin business for continued growth.
In June the firm was named the fastest-growing aerospace and defence company in Europe.
Upon receiving the accolade, Mr James said: “It’s an honour to have received this award from the University of South Wales, and I’m absolutely delighted to be here.
“In business I’ve spent my entire career employing graduates, and a commitment to education is incredibly important.
“We value the graduates, and we value the aerospace engineering qualifications that come out of the University of South Wales.”