Carl Hopkins

Carl is a Yorkshire-based entrepreneur and marketing expert whose career spans 25 years. Since selling his multi-million pound marketing agency JDA in 2007, he has turned his hand to serial entrepreneurship and become an ambassador for enterprise. Carl is opinionated, outspoken and has acquired a tough, no nonsense reputation for telling it like it is.

On Channel 4's The Secret Millionaire, Carl was full of hope and admiration for the people of Easington, County Durham, who are willing to give up their own time, money and effort for no personal gain to help others. Carl grew up on a tough council estate on the outskirts of Leeds, and grew up dreaming of escaping the confines of the area. His own determination and drive have made him the man he is today and now he's ready to help someone else.

His businesses include 'kloog' - his own business development consultancy, Parties Around the World - a personalised party packs service that also helps charities in the UK and abroad, and Joblink Solutions - a Community Interest Company that prepares people for the world of work through education and inspiration.

He is also one of 26 nationwide entrepreneurs handpicked to attend Vince Cable's Entrepreneurs' Forum which focuses on easing the regulations faced by start-up businesses.

The Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) team will also be at the event encouraging students to find out more about the exciting social projects they can work on. SIFE Salford is composed of students with a drive and passion to succeed and make a difference in the local community.

The University's Enterprise Champion, Louise Kenworthy, who works on the European Regional Development Fund North West Higher Education Enterprise Champions Project, said: "Carl is an inspiration with an interesting career. He is currently backing the national launch of an enterprise education programme that teaches children as young as four the skills and concepts behind running a business.

"I'm sure he'll inspire our entrepreneurial students and graduates not only to succeed in business, but to give something back too."

The induction will take place in the Old Fire Station. Registration and a wine reception sponsored by The Co-operative will start at 4.00pm. For more information and to book a place, please contact Louise atL.E.Kenworthy@salford.ac.uk or call 0161 295 3807.