Alumnus’ passion for geography shared with students

Richard is Executive Chairman for Iceland Foods and Bywater Properties.

In the lecture, attended by current Geography students and introduced by Head of Geography, Professor Colm O’Cofaigh, Richard recalled his days at Durham, telling the students that Durham was the making of him. He credited this partly to the collegiate system, which meant there were countless ways to get involved and enabled him to try many activities, including Ultimate Frisbee. He also spoke highly of his degree, reflecting that everything he has done in his career comes back to Geography.  

Sustainability in business 

Students heard how Richard considers Geography to be even more relevant now. Over the past decade, climate change has earned a place on everyone’s agenda, and Richard felt confident that this would only increase, with sustainability becoming an increasing focus for business.

Richard’s family business is the British supermarket chain, Iceland. But he didn’t plan on going into the business. After graduation, Richard became a chartered surveyor and then went to Poland and set up a business of his own.  

Richard later returned to the UK and joined the family business, led by his desire to be near his family and sense of pride in Iceland leading the way in banning GM foods and artificial colourings. He worked on the shop floor and in store management before taking on more of a leadership role.

He has since used the business to launch sustainability programmes such as banning plastic and palm oil from own brand products. Iceland has signed the climate pledge to reach net zero by 2040. Richard is passionate about supporting his customers and giving them cost-effective options while recognising the importance of sustainability. Sometimes, this can be a challenge, but his belief is that consumers and retailers must work together to address this growing issue.

Ultimately, Iceland is about helping people, Richard shared with the students. They offer 10% off for the over 60s on Tuesdays and run the Iceland Food Club, which provides micro-loans to families during the school holidays. Iceland is the largest recruiter of ex-offenders in the UK and its charitable foundation has given out more than £31m in grants. 

Charity fundraising challenge

In 2023, Richard personally committed to raising £1m for the Brain Appeal by taking climbing Everest. Some of the learnings he took from this experience were the importance of being resilient, the value of putting one foot in front of the other during challenging times and persevering when things get tough.  

At the heart of Richard’s lecture was the message that studying Geography at Durham shaped who he is today. Remembering back to his time at Durham, Richard told the students, “Geography has been the kernel of inspiration…Aspects of Geography influence everything I do every day.” 

----- 

Find out more 

• About our global alumni community 
• Studying Geography at Durham
• Our wider student experience opportunities
• About St Aidan's College

Main image (L-R): Vice-Chancellor and Warden Professor Karen O'Brien, Richard Walker OBE, St Aidan's College Principal Susan Frenk, Deputy Head of Geography Professor Anna Secor

Durham University takes pride in the achievements and contributions of its 230 000 alumni and supporters. Stories that cite views, talks and published work reflect the individual's contribution in their personal or professional capacity and do not represent the University's position or endorsement.