Sir William Purves is Group Chairman of HSBC Holdings Ltd and a director of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation who led its recent acquisition of the Midland Bank in the United Kingdom. He joined the Bank in 1954 and served in many countries abroad before rising to become chairman in 1986. He retired in January, 1993 but remains group chairman of HSBC Holdings. Sir William was a member of the Executive Council and was knighted in the Queen's 1993 New Year’s Honours List.
In recognition of his contributions to Hong Kong's economy, the University has resolved to confer upon him the degree of Doctor of Laws honoris causa.
