The University of Cumbria has been named the top university in the UK for producing business leaders, according to new research.
The study, by Novuna Business Cash Flow, a leading provider of cash flow finance for SMEs and corporates, reveals that 8.27% of Cumbria graduates rise to chief executive officer or managing director positions – the highest percentage of all universities in the study.
This highlights the growing influence of regional universities in shaping the future of British business.
The research also shows a broader trend: while London remains a hub for top executives, regions like the North West and Wales are closing the gap.
The North West now ranks second only to London in producing senior business leaders.
The university’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Brian Webster-Henderson OBE, said: “This recognition is a testament to the unique and forward-thinking education we provide at the University of Cumbria and we are delighted to be recognised in this way.
“Being named as one of the leading universities to produce CEOs and MDs represents the importance and impact that the University of Cumbria is having in the region and beyond.
“Making an impact in over 100 countries, our graduates are not only equipped with the skills to lead but also with the vision to innovate and drive sustainable change in the business world.”
The findings also challenge traditional assumptions about business education.
Creative degrees such as art and graphic design were found to play a significant role in entrepreneurial success, while conventional business subjects were less dominant among top founder-producing institutions. This underscores the value of creativity, communication and alternative academic paths in fostering innovation.
University of Cumbria, which is number one in the North West and top 10 in the UK for graduates moving into employment or further study within 15 months of completion (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2024), was previously named the top university in the North for entrepreneurship and ranked sixth overall in the UK.
- Access the Novuna Business Cash Flow research at https://www.novuna.co.uk/news-and-insights/business-cash-flow/choosing-a-university-our-research-reveals-the-degrees-that-lead-to-leadership/.
