 He was managing director of the British National Oil Corporation 1976–80; chief executive of Guinness Peat Group 1982–87 and chairman in 1987; co-chairman of Eurotunnel, 1987–96 and group chief executive 1990–94; chairman of the British Treasury's private finance panel 1993–95 and chairman of the Strategic Rail Authority, 1999–2001.In 1990, he was awarded an Honorary Degree (Doctor of Laws) from the University of Bath.He was chairman of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain 1994–2004.