Richard Brame
From Suffolk College Accountancy student to Managing Director at WTW
Richard Brame studied ACCA (Certified Accountancy) at Suffolk College between 1984 and 1986. Forty years on, he has built an impressive career in business operations, change management and leadership, and is now a Managing Director at WTW, Head of the WTW Ipswich office and a member of the Willis Group Services Board.
After leaving college, Richard used the accountancy skills he developed during his studies as the foundation for a career that has spanned a wide range of roles, industries and international experiences. He progressed from working as part of a team to leading teams, departments and major business functions, with responsibilities taking him between Ipswich and London and across the world.
A significant part of Richard’s career was spent in the world of business change, initially as a Project Manager and later as a Change Programme Director. Throughout his career he has embraced new challenges and witnessed huge advances in technology, something he says continues to provide opportunities to learn and develop every week.
Reflecting on his time at Suffolk College, Richard credits the college with helping him develop essential skills that have supported him throughout his career.
“It taught me some key skills including time management, organisation and communication skills. It also helped build my confidence. My time at the College helped set the foundation for my career.”
Among many career highlights, Richard points to planning, managing and delivering the world’s largest Insurance Scheme of Arrangement, a five-year project completed in 2008 that remains the largest scheme of its kind ever deployed worldwide.
While Richard has enjoyed a successful international career, he remains passionate about Suffolk and supporting its future success. Suffolk born and bred, he actively contributes to a number of local, national and global boards and steering groups, including serving as a Board Member of Suffolk New College and Ipswich Central.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed most of what I have done over the last 40 years. I have hugely enjoyed the travel, meeting people and developing contacts. It has been both challenging and rewarding.”
For current students considering their future careers, Richard’s advice is straightforward:
“Ask lots of questions – and keep going until you understand. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. I think you learn the most when things are a little uncomfortable.”