After leaving BGS, Howard embarked on an extraordinary career spanning the military, international diplomacy, social enterprise, conservation and business leadership. From serving as a paratroop officer and working on counter terrorism and weapons inspections for the Foreign Office, to leading organisations including the Eden Project and Born Free, his career has been driven by a commitment to leadership and creating positive change. He is now working towards publishing his first book.

As a mentor on BGS Connect, Howard is happy to hear from students and fellow Old Bristolians who would like to explore careers in leadership, the armed forces, international affairs, sustainability, social enterprise or the charity sector, and is keen to share his experience and advice.

What are your best memories of BGS?

I loved the ancient feel of the older buildings, and the history - which translated into a feeling of responsibility, though I admit this came to me toward the end of my time at the school..!  This, together with the commitment of teaching staff and - of course - the close camaraderie and friendship of other pupils gave the confidence one gains from being part of something great.

Can you remember any teachers at BGS who had an impact on you?

Mr Smith saw, at a crucial time, that I needed help and guidance.  He above others, ensured that I passed easily and unexpectedly through ‘0’ Levels and arrived, to the surprise of many, in 6th Form.  Mr Trott, Mr Warren, Mr Cox and Mr Morris were fantastic, for sport (running and Rugby), and toward my ‘A’ Levels.

What did you do after BGS?

I studied Medicine at Cardiff but fell out of love with the idea and let, in the 4th year, to join the military.  From then, I completed 16 years commissioned service as a paratroop officer, counter terrorism and light armour, then leadership instructor at military college, then specialist service around the world, commanding the first units of the Mozambique Army, Kurdish Peshmerga and US Army Special forces in Iraq and worked for the Foreign Office in several areas, including as a weapons inspector in Baghdad and drafter and author of the final UN report on weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) for the UN Security Council.  From there, I was a Director of the Eden Project for 11 years, CEO of my own social business for regeneration, ethical investment and social inclusion (gaining an honorary Doctorate for impacts), CEO of the international wildlife charity Born Free, Board member for Bangarra Group (Family Office investment business) and MD in the UK for their hospitality and sports businesses.  I then undertook Board advisory roles on governance and sustainable transition.

What has been the highlight of your career?

Too numerous to mention - I have been extremely fortunate.  But perhaps my programmes for thousands of disadvantaged young people while at Eden Project and as part of my social business - Living Networks.  Whilst my leadership of Born Free was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and rare experience.  Though it is hard to cap sitting across a table in Baghdad from the government of Saddam Hussein, questioning them on WMDs.

What's next for you?

I continue to advise senior teams and Boards on sustainable transition, leadership and governance, though am semi-retired and am probably going to undertake one or two non-exec roles.  Other than this, I have authored a manuscript for a book which is based upon a snapshot of my time in Iraq as a military officer and Foreign Office operator.  This is currently with agents.

What motivates you?

To effect positive change and to leave the world a little better than it would have otherwise been

How do you relax?

I surf when I can.  Sea swim, read avidly, explore art in many forms, enjoy walks and nature very much and a glass of wine and meal in lovely places.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Try to not be quite so challenging and keen to be the centre of attention - relax, curb the devilishness to be naughty and not be embarrassed or shy to admit to enjoying learning.  It all came to me eventually, but not without the care, nurture and patience of the team at BGS, to whom I owe almost everything for sticking with me.