• 20 hours ago
FinTrU founder Darragh McCarthy has been honoured by Ulster University, the Times Higher Education University of the Year 2024, for his highly impactful leadership in the financial services industry.

Darragh is the founder and CEO of FinTrU, a global financial services firm established in 2013 that now employs over 1,500 people across offices in Belfast, Londonderry, Letterkenny, London, New York and Porto.

A leader focused on creating high-quality professional employment and fostering entrepreneurial spirit, Darragh’s influence extends well beyond profit.

Now a Doctor of Science (DSc) from Ulster University, Darragh joined thousands of graduates in the Class of 2024 celebrating their achievements across ceremonies in Belfast, Coleraine and Londonderry.

Among them is an incredible group of inspirational leaders in sports, business, the music industry and contemporary art who have each been recognised by Ulster University, the Times Higher Education University of the Year 2024, with Honorary Doctorate awards: Olympians, business leaders and trailblazing music managers to be celebrated as Ulster University prepares to bestow series of Honorary Doctorates.
Transcript
00:00Do you mind if we even just start nice on those reviews?
00:02You can do whatever you want, no problem.
00:04So how do you feel about getting this honour today?
00:08Look, very surprised, but really humbled, excited, very honoured.
00:14Didn't expect it, but it's absolutely fantastic.
00:17Putting on all the beautiful robes makes me feel very special.
00:21And do you have any advice for the graduates today?
00:24Look, I think they should be very proud of what they've achieved.
00:27It's a great day of celebration for them and their loved ones.
00:30They have worked very hard over many years to graduate from this wonderful university.
00:34So I think enjoy the moment, and it's a fantastic occasion.
00:37And are business schools actually celebrating their 50th anniversary next year?
00:42Do you have any words of congratulations?
00:45So it's good that someone is finally younger than me.
00:48But no, I think it's fantastic, and the business school has had huge success.
00:52It's actually been great to my company, Fincher.
00:54We've had a wonderful partnership with the business school over many years
00:57and hired many of their graduates.
00:58So I just wish them many success for the next 50.
01:01And in terms of our business graduates, do you have any advice for them
01:04if they are wanting to set up their own business someday?
01:07Being an entrepreneur myself, I strongly encourage everyone
01:10to set up their own businesses and be entrepreneurial.
01:13And I paraphrase Nike, just do it.
01:16I like that.
01:18We've recently won University of the Year.
01:20In case you haven't heard, I'm sure you have.
01:23In the UK and Ireland, do you have any message of congratulations
01:26for our students and staff?
01:27No, absolutely.
01:28Well, obviously, I thought 2024 was a special year,
01:31and that's the year when it is the University of the Year in the UK and Ireland.
01:34So it's actually just wonderful to be graduating in the same year.
01:37But it really is a testament to everything that Ulster University has done.
01:40I think they can be incredibly proud.
01:42Having been a longtime supporter and partner of the university,
01:45I was absolutely cheering you on from the sidelines,
01:47and I was delighted that she got it.
01:48It was more than well deserved.

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