Dragons' Den star appointed as university professor

Mr Paphitis spent eight years on the BBC show Dragons' Den after joining in 2005

Entrepreneur and Dragons' Den star Theo Paphitis has been revealed as the University of Derby's newest professor.

The announcement was made at the opening of the University of Derby's £75m Cavendish Building on Friday.

Mr Paphitis, who has been appointed as visiting professor of entrepreneurship, will work with university chancellor Lord Burlington to lead the Chancellor's Entrepreneurs Club.

He said he would help students "turn ambition into opportunity".

The club aims to help students develop applied skills, gain industry insights, and help their business journeys, the university said.

The University of Derby's Cavendish Building will be the new home of Derby International Business School

Mr Paphitis said: "I am delighted to join the University of Derby as their visiting professor of entrepreneurship.

"I will draw on my decades of business experience to support the university's commitment to putting entrepreneurship front and centre, encouraging the students of Derby to turn ambition into opportunity."

Mr Paphitis became well known for multiple retail, property and finance businesses, including global lingerie brand Boux Avenue.

The university said Mr Paphitis will "inspire the next generation of business leaders" in his new position.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of Derby, added: "[Mr Paphitis] is a highly respected entrepreneur, influential in the business world, known for his remarkable track record of success including Robert Dyas, Boux Avenue and Ryman Stationery.

"Insights and learning from Theo will be an invaluable asset to our institution. We are excited about the positive impact he will have on our student community."