Two giants from the world of sport and business were at the University of Dundee on Wednesday to inspire Scotland’s next generation of entrepreneurs.
Legendary footballer Andrii Shevchenko and business leader Mark Madden were at the University’s Centre for Entrepreneurship to participate in a Q&A session with students and members of the local business community.
The pair discussed their respective careers, latest business collaboration and participation in this week’s Alfred Dunhill Links Championship with the University’s Michael Marra at the event, hosted in conjunction with Elevator, Scotland’s leading business support organisation.
Brian McNicoll, Head of the Centre for Entrepreneurship, said that hearing from two figures who had conquered their respective fields provided valuable insight in what it takes to succeed in business.
“It was an honour to welcome Mark and Andrii to campus and to hear of their combined experiences in what many might think are two very different arenas. However, there are many parallels between sport and business and to hear what both had to say about leadership, their desire to succeed, and ability to overcome challenges was engrossing.
“Those who were fortunate enough to join us today will undoubtedly have been inspired by what was a fascinating insight as to what it takes for a person to rise to the top of their chosen profession.”
Andrii is currently the Manager of the Ukraine national football team. Previously he had a very successful playing career with Dynamo Kyiv, AC Milan, Chelsea and the Ukraine national team. He is one of Europe’s most successful strikers and received the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2004. As well as his work within football, Andrii is personally involved with a number of charity organisations.
Mark Madden is the founder and CEO of boutique family office Peregrine390. Peregrine sits on bespoke innovative technology which provides clients with financial visibility and transparency so they are empowered in their decision making and planning. He is also an active angel investor in a wide range of Fintechs and start-ups.
Andrii and Mark are currently collaborating on a number of sports-led initiatives within Peregrine390.
Andy Campbell, Head of Accelerators at Elevator, said, “We were thrilled to welcome both Mark and Andrii to our Centre for Entrepreneurship in Dundee.
“By understanding the psyche of Mark and Andrii, we can apply those learnings to our own business and to those that we support. At Elevator, our aim is to empower existing and emerging entrepreneurs providing them with the environment and opportunity to take their ambition to the next level.
“We’re moulding the next generation of entrepreneurial winners.”
