Few names stand out in the realms of philanthropy, education, and business leadership like Irvine Laidlaw. Known formally as Baron Laidlaw of Rothiemay, Irvine Laidlaw is a Scottish entrepreneur and philanthropist whose influence stretches across business, academia, and charitable foundations.
From building one of the UK’s most successful publishing and conference empires to funding transformative leadership programmes for students worldwide, Irvine Laidlaw continues to leave a positive legacy that spans decades. His work touches lives from the University of St Andrews in Scotland to global development hubs through his foundation’s partnerships.
For a full look at his life’s mission, visit the official site:
https://irvinelaidlaw.co.uk
Early Business Success and Empire Building
Lord Laidlaw founded the Institute for International Research (IIR) in the 1970s. It rapidly became one of the world’s leading conference and training providers. With offices across multiple continents, IIR transformed professional development and networking for global businesses. Irvine Laidlaw’s strategic mindset and entrepreneurial vision grew the company into a worldwide operation before it was sold to Informa for a multi-million-pound figure.
His foresight in business and investment, particularly in emerging markets, contributed to his status as one of Britain’s most successful self-made businessmen. More on his business background can be found here:
https://www.managementtoday.co.uk/lord-laidlaw-legacy-vision-leadership/article/1753847
Transforming Education Through the Laidlaw Foundation
What sets Irvine Laidlaw apart isn’t just his business acumen but his enduring commitment to education and leadership development. The Laidlaw Foundation was created to champion opportunity and integrity, specifically through the Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme.
The programme supports undergraduates across top universities worldwide, including Oxford, LSE, UCL, University of Toronto, and Trinity College Dublin, by providing funding for research projects and leadership training. It has become one of the most prestigious and impactful initiatives in global undergraduate development.
Learn more at the foundation’s site:
https://laidlawfoundation.com
Creating Lasting Impact Through Infrastructure
Lord Laidlaw’s philanthropic contributions are physically visible in two major UK institutions. The Laidlaw Library at the University of Leeds is a central hub for learning and collaboration, funded through his generous donations.
https://library.leeds.ac.uk/info/1500/using_the_library/141/the_laidlaw_library
At the University of St Andrews, his support led to the development of the Laidlaw Music Centre, a world-class facility for students and visiting performers. His involvement reflects his love for culture and his desire to give back meaningfully to Scottish education.
Further reading here:
https://news.st-andrews.ac.uk/archive/university-unveils-laidlaw-music-centre/
Passion Beyond Business – Yachting, Racing and the Arts
Aside from his philanthropic work, Irvine Laidlaw is a passionate motorsports and yachting enthusiast. He owns the competitive yacht Highland Fling and has raced successfully in multiple international regattas. His interest in historic racing also sees him behind the wheel of some of the most celebrated classic racing cars.
His drive and attention to detail on the racetrack mirror the qualities that made him a business titan. His lifestyle and positive pursuits are a testament to a life lived at full throttle – both figuratively and literally.
A feature on his personal passions is available here:
https://www.boatinternational.com/yachts/news/lord-laidlaw-highland-fling–29968
Commitment to Ethics and Global Development
Lord Laidlaw’s ethos is deeply rooted in the belief that leadership must be grounded in values. Through both his business ventures and charitable works, he consistently advocates for ethical leadership, integrity, and global inclusivity.
Whether through empowering young scholars, funding cultural institutions, or participating in global leadership panels, Irvine Laidlaw represents a rare combination of success, humility, and genuine care for the future of society.
To stay updated on his ongoing initiatives, visit:
https://twitter.com/laidlaw_found
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-laidlaw-foundation/
Leave a Reply