Polytechnic Portraits

We are delighted to announce the newest in our series of Greenwich Portraits - celebrating our Thames Polytechnic alumni.

This year's collection of Greenwich Portraits honours our Thames Polytechnic era, from 1970 to 1992, showcasing remarkable alumni who are transforming lives across the UK and globally.

Each portrait is testament to the diversity of fields in which Greenwich graduates make their mark and highlights the brilliant and life-changing impact they are making in the UK and globally.

Gary Mountford

Technical Director, EPR Architects

Gary Mountford is the Technical Director at EPR Architects. If you walk through London, you will likely encounter Gary’s work, from the Ritz to the Southbank. “Architecture has allowed me to leave a tangible mark on cities like London."

Gary’s journey to becoming an architect began long before he enrolled at Thames Polytechnic, now the University of Greenwich. From an early age, drawing came naturally to him, whether sketching imaginative designs or creating detailed building sections. His creative spirit, partly influenced by undiagnosed dyslexia, paved the way for his future career.

Gary Mountford’s career is a testament to the power of following one’s passion. As an accomplished architect and mentor, he continues to inspire and guide the next generation. His story underscores the transformative impact of Thames Polytechnic, which set him on a path to a fulfilling career and a lasting legacy in architecture.

"Growing up with undiagnosed dyslexia and facing academic challenges, I was initially steered away from higher education. Thames Polytechnic saw potential in me and set me on the path to becoming an architect.”

“The friendships, experiences, and foundation of my architectural career all began there. Today, as I continue to shape skylines and mentor future architects, the influence of those formative years at Thames Polytechnic is something I carry with me every day.”

Mike Jones

King's Counsel, Crown Prosecution Service

Mike Jones’ journey from Thames Polytechnic to King’s Counsel (KC) is an inspiring story of ambition and dedication. His experiences at Thames Polytechnic not only shaped his career, but also instilled in him a commitment to making the legal profession more accessible to future generations.

Mike’s decision to attend Thames Polytechnic was driven by curiosity. The institution’s prospectus, one of the first he received, immediately caught his attention. Its depiction of diverse campuses and a wide array of courses presented a world far removed from his hometown in Wales, igniting his desire for new experiences.

Mike’s career is marked by significant achievements, each deeply personal and professionally meaningful. His proudest professional milestones include his call to the bar and becoming Queen’s Counsel in 2018 (now King’s Counsel after King Charles III ascended the throne in 2023). In 2021, Mike was appointed a Bencher at Middle Temple, a senior role in governance, reflecting his commitment to the legal profession and its future.

“My favourite memories from Thames are the people I met. Moving from a small town in Wales to London opened my eyes to a whole new world. I loved being around the campus and getting to know fellow students from different backgrounds to my own.”

Nick Russell

Consultant, Perega

Nick Russell is a consultant and former director of engineering consultancy firm, Perega. A qualified chartered structural and civil engineer, Nick’s career has thus far spanned 45 years as a consulting engineer, expert witness and invited lecturer both in the UK and across the world.

Nick’s career has seen him take positions as Global President of the Institution of Structural Engineers, Chair of the Joint Board of Moderators and Chair of the Institution of Structural Engineers Professional Practice Committee as well as being one of its Trustees.

Nick is a fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Institution of Structural Engineers and the Institution of Civil Engineers. He is a Visiting Professor at the Universities of Surrey and East London and a member of the University of Surrey’s Industrial Advisory Board.