Universal Defence and Security Solutions (UDSS) Director Vice Admiral Duncan Potts last week received an Honorary Doctorate of Science from City University, London.
Vice Admiral Duncan Potts CB was granted the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) during the commencement ceremony of City University's School of Science & Technology (SST) at the Barbican Centre on July 17th, 2023.
Recipients of City's honorary doctorates are individuals who have achieved remarkable distinction in their professional or academic pursuits and serve as exemplary role models for our students.
The Honorary Degree was bestowed upon Vice Admiral Potts in recognition of his exceptional career with the Royal Navy and his significant contributions to public service.
Having served as the former Director General of the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom, former Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Capability), and former Controller of the Navy during 2013 to 2014, Vice Admiral Potts has demonstrated exemplary leadership and dedication.
Vice Admiral Duncan Potts began his educational journey at Wellington School before joining the Royal Navy in 1979. Following training and sea experience, he pursued his studies at City University, London, graduating with a BSc in Business Systems and Management in 1983.
Throughout his esteemed career, Vice Admiral Potts commanded various vessels, including HMS Brilliant, HMS Southampton, and as a Captain, HMS Marlborough. His assignments took him to diverse locations worldwide, such as the Falkland Islands, the Middle East, the Gulf, and participation in NATO operations.
During his tenure as a Commodore and Rear Admiral, Vice Admiral Potts demonstrated leadership in guiding Coalition Task Groups in the Gulf and spearheading naval counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. Additionally, he played a key role in the Ministry of Defence and served as a member of the Navy Board responsible for capability planning.
Promoted to Vice Admiral in September 2014, he assumed the position of Director-General of the Joint Force Development and Defence Academy.
Upon retiring from the Royal Navy in 2018, Vice Admiral Potts embarked on a versatile career, primarily focused on defence and security consultancy with Universal Defence and Security Solutions. He presently chairs the Public Weather Service Customer Group, an entity overseeing the UK Meteorological Office. Besides his professional pursuits, Vice Admiral Potts actively engages in pro-bono commitments, including serving as the National President of the Royal Naval Association, the leading organisation for retired Royal Navy sailors.
