Former Master Cutler appointed Honorary Professor at Sheffield Hallam

Philip Rodrigo, the former Master Cutler, has been appointed as an Honorary Professor at Sheffield Hallam University

Press contact: Joseph Barker |  joseph.barker@shu.ac.uk

He will work with the College of Business, Technology and Engineering (BTE) to strengthen the University’s role as a driver of regional prosperity and as a trusted partner to industry, particularly within the advanced manufacturing sector. 

Philip Rodrigo is a senior global manufacturing executive with more than three decades of leadership experience delivering organisational transformation, global HR strategy and operational excellence across the stainless-steel industry.  

On his appointment, Philip said: “I am honoured to be able to support the College of BTE in its journey to support the growth of talent in this region and the UK together with supporting local businesses as they look to compete in a changing world. Sheffield Hallam has a great reputation and one that I want to promote but also continue to learn as a business leader from great students, staff and partners in the region.” 

Mr Rodrigo has also played a prominent role in regional industrial leadership and governance. As the 385th Master Cutler of the Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire, he represented Sheffield’s manufacturing sector and engaged with national and regional policymakers, civic leaders and industry partners. He also brings extensive governance experience as a Council Member and Senior Independent Governor at the University of Sheffield, serves as Honorary Consul of Finland for South Yorkshire and was recently appointed Deputy Lieutenant of South Yorkshire. 

Drawing on his experience in global manufacturing leadership and his extensive regional networks, he will support the University in strengthening external engagement, articulating its distinctive contribution to the regional innovation ecosystem, and expanding collaboration between the University, industry and civic partners. 

Professor Jennifer Smith Maguire, Executive Dean of the College of Business, Technology and Engineering, said: “I’m delighted that Philip Rodrigo is joining Sheffield Hallam as an Honorary Professor. Philip brings outstanding leadership experience from the global manufacturing sector, alongside a deep commitment to Sheffield and the wider city region. His expertise in organisational transformation, talent development, and industrial leadership aligns strongly with our ambitions for the College of Business, Technology and Engineering. We’re excited to work with Philip to strengthen industry partnerships, enhance student employability, and further position the University as a key driver of innovation, skills, and inclusive regional growth.”