From uncertainty to success: How Coventry University shaped a global IT leader
Phil Adcock’s path to global Information Technology (IT) leadership began at Coventry University, fuelled by a passion for computers and cars - but no clear roadmap.
Encouraged by his uncle, a former IBM employee, Phil chose Coventry University for its strong reputation in industrial placements and hands-on learning. Early in his first year, he realised that standing out in a competitive job market meant more than just completing his Computer Science BSc - it meant finding ways to differentiate himself.
With support from his Industrial Placement tutor - now Vice-Chancellor Professor John Latham CBE - Phil was guided towards tailored career support. Recognising Phil’s potential, John personally secured him an interview with Ford Motor Company, which proved to be a pivotal moment that launched his career.
That leap of faith took Phil from a small village school in Norfolk to leading IT operations for Ford across Europe, China and beyond.
The power of belief: A lecturer who changed everything
Phil credits Coventry University - and the guidance of Professor Latham - with helping him realise that academic success alone wouldn’t guarantee a great job.
Phil said: “I told John I’d learned my lesson. Before Coventry, I thought being in the top set at school and getting good grades would be enough - I was wrong. John helped me understand how to bring my personal strengths to the forefront, and Coventry matched me with the right company.”
Professor Latham continued to support Phil’s journey with regular visits to Ford Motor Company.
Phil said: “Performing well at Coventry and at Ford was key. Thanks to John’s support, I secured undergraduate sponsorship and had a job offer before graduating with a 2:1 - just shy of a first. He believed in me and I’m incredibly grateful. The rest is history.”
A foundation for success
Reflecting on his journey, Phil credits his time at university for giving him the confidence, skills and real-world experience to succeed.
He said: “Coventry University had the right balance - strong academics, great facilities and a supportive environment. It gave me the springboard into work and shaped my career.
“You can have top academic scores but without teamwork and soft skills, you won’t thrive. Coventry got the mix right.
“Coventry University gave me more than just technical skills - I made lots of friends, adapted to city life and had a wonderful time. The combination of hard and soft skills prepared me for leadership and helped shape my approach to recruitment later in my career.
“My career was, and is, Made in Coventry.”
A curriculum that has stood the test of time
Phil completed his Computer Science studies at Coventry University in 1991, before the internet revolution truly began. Yet the curriculum has remained remarkably relevant throughout his career.
He said: “From technical modules like computer networks and 3D graphics to management and teamwork projects, the course laid a strong foundation that I’ve drawn on at every stage - from infrastructure roles to senior leadership.
“Even today, I still refer to my old textbooks. The university’s ability to deliver a curriculum with such longevity and relevance, especially in a fast-moving field like tech, is exceptional.”
Industrial placements: a career-defining advantage for father and son
For Phil, industrial placements are at the heart of Coventry University’s strength and a key reason he encouraged his son Ben to follow in his footsteps.
He said: “The industrial placement programme was a standout feature. It gave me the opportunity to apply what I’d learned in a real-world setting, and it was instrumental in launching my career at Ford.”
Recognising the value of hands-on experience, Phil recommended Coventry’s aeronautical engineering course to Ben, who went on to complete a placement at Airbus UK.
This helped him secure a role as a pilot at British Airways - proof, Phil says, that Coventry University’s practical approach continues to prepare students to reach their personal goals.
He said: “Placements like these give students a genuine taste of working life and help them build the skills, confidence and connections needed to succeed.
“Coventry University has consistently maintained relationships with top-tier companies, which is no small feat - it shows the university’s commitment to staying relevant and respected in industry.”
Phil is pictured alongside his son, Ben at his Graduation at Coventry University.
A launchpad for leadership
Phil credits his Coventry University degree - and the student-focused learning environment - with accelerating his career and giving him the confidence to lead.
He said: “I didn’t come from a traditional elite background but the practical, team-based learning and strong curriculum helped me realise I was just as capable as anyone else. I was fortunate to be consistently offered roles that stretched me, often ahead of my experience. By my early 30s, I was leading IT development for Europe, and by 37 I was appointed IT Director for China, just as the market was opening up.
“Eventually I became IT Director for Ford Credit, a registered bank, and later Chief Information Officer for Ford Europe, based in Germany, reporting directly to the CEO. That journey wasn’t just about good fortune - it was built on the foundation Coventry gave me. It didn’t just prepare me for a job, it gave me a launchpad for a global career.”
Confidence is key
His advice to anyone starting their career is to believe in their own potential.
He said: “Choose the course that’s right for you and believe in yourself. Coventry University competes at the top when it comes to industry relevance. The engineering programmes maintain a strong culture of preparing students for real-world roles. It’s vital to pick a course that aligns with the demands of the industry, not just one that looks good on paper.
“Coming from Coventry University, I’ve worked alongside people from all backgrounds and realised that capability matters more than anything. If you apply yourself with confidence, not arrogance, you can achieve anything.”
Rediscovering IT – Phil’s new chapter
After retiring from Ford at the end of 2023, Phil planned to pursue his passion for racing and even qualified as an instructor. But after a year and a half, he realised he missed IT, and more importantly, the people.
He said: “Now I’m back in the sector part-time as an IT advisor with Cognizant. This phase of my career is about giving back and enjoying the work I’ve always loved. My time at Ford was incredibly rewarding and I’m grateful to continue contributing to a field that still excites me.”
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