Stephen Ingledew was presented with an honorary doctorate at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh during a graduation ceremony for students from ENU’s Business School.

In a career spanning four decades, Mr Ingledew has earned a reputation for leading new customer-focused technology in a wide range of financial organisations. He has held executive leadership roles in large institutions, such as Standard Life and Barclays, as well as early-stage enterprises.

He founded FinTech Scotland in 2018 and led it as CEO, later becoming chairman. It has since drawn widespread industry praise and was the first fintech body in the UK and Europe to achieve a silver label for cluster management excellence.

Mr Ingledew was awarded an OBE in the 2023 New Year Honours List for his contribution to financial and technology innovation.

Mr Ingledew said: “I am immensely proud and honoured to receive this recognition from Edinburgh Napier University, whose reputation for making a positive difference through enterprise and innovation very much sits at the heart of my career journey over the last forty plus years.

“The University has a longstanding track record of being one of the UK’s leading modern universities which delivers meaningful, difference-making education and research for a rapidly changing world.

“This aligns with my personal modus of operandi in the growing world of financial innovation – which can positively benefit all people and businesses across our diverse communities.

“I am excited to have the ongoing opportunity to support the inspiring and impactful leadership of Edinburgh Napier University.”

Presenting the honorary degree, Professor Sukanlaya Sawang from The Business School at ENU, said: “Stephen Ingledew is a distinguished figure with over four decades of exceptional contributions to financial services, business development, and innovation.

“His journey, marked by strategic foresight and an unwavering dedication to advancing the industry, has positioned him as a true pioneer in financial technology.

“This honorary degree recognises not only Stephen’s accomplishments but also his potential to continue shaping the future.”