George Ratcliffe studied Politics with Economics at Bath before joining the INEOS Group, where he has spent the last decade building an international career across a range of industries. Now based in New York, he is President of the Americas at INEOS Automotive.
He's just as driven outside the office. A keen runner, George has raced in 37 marathons around the world. His connection to Bath has continued beyond graduation, and he now supports the University as a member of the US Foundation Board.
Why did you choose Bath, and what do you remember most about your time here?
Knowing I would end up working in London at some point in my career, I wanted to avoid studying there as well. I was keen on attending a campus university, and looking around, I felt there was no better experience than Bath. You get both the benefit of a historic city and the community feel of the university. Plus, I wanted to keep playing sport, for fun, whilst being at a top academic university.
What from your time at Bath has stayed with you most? 
The people, the network and the experience. I know a lot of people who go to university, get the degree, and then it’s nothing to do with their lives anymore. Bath has been great at staying in touch and staying relevant to me. It continues to give back.
You studied Politics with Economics at Bath. What did those years look like?
Really fun. My core group of friends, some I work with now and the rest I see regularly, are all the people I share the most with. I have the first few years to thank for those bonds. It was a mixed degree, so I shared a lot of subjects with students on other courses. It was a great way to meet more people.
You joined Ineos after graduating and have worked across several parts of the business. How has that shaped your approach to work?
No matter the subject, chemicals, trading, automotive, mergers and acquisitions or medical, the same set of skills apply throughout. You have to fully immerse yourself in the topic, and then it becomes a problem solving or analytical role, no matter the subject.
Your career has seen you work globally. What have you enjoyed about working in different countries?
I’ve worked in England, Scotland, Switzerland, Monaco and America. I find it fascinating to work in different cultures. Europe and America are very different! If there were 25 hours in a day, Americans would find a way to work all 25.
What interests you about the automotive industry?
It is enormous, much more so than I knew going into it. A car is the second biggest purchase most people ever make, after buying a home. The industry behind it is enormous, from manufacturing, supply chains all the way to dealers and government intervention. However, regulation across different countries has made it a very difficult business to compete in over the last ten years.
Outside of work, you've taken on marathons and expeditions. What draws you to those challenges?
It’s great to have a goal! I like to sit down at the start of the year, imagine myself in December and ask, ‘What have I achieved this year?’ Typically, when you look back, you can summarise your entire year in a few highlights: 'I got a promotion, turned 30 and ran a marathon.' Having my goals lined up helps me feel more motivated and fulfilled.
You've stayed connected to Bath through the US Foundation Board. Why has that mattered to you?
The University gives so much to young students, including myself, so if I can give back, I will. Also, as the University evolves with the current environment, it is helpful to have a fairly recent graduate’s point of view.
What would you say to a current student thinking about a career in industry?
It’s a fantastic career. Economies need a balance of services and industry. There is more than just working in finance! The world is growing at an exceptional rate, so industry will only become more relevant. You will always find a job there. And it is something that can take you all around the world.
If you could go back to your first day at Bath, what would you tell yourself?
Three years for a degree is more than you need, so make the most of all the spare time you have and fill it with what you can. Whether that's sports, socialising, extra modules, languages or getting involved with clubs and societies. It’s all these extra pieces that make the university experience, not the degree itself, that bit is a given if you have got into Bath!
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