Secretariat

Obituary: Arnold Ziff

Dr I Arnold Ziff, OBE, LLD

Members will be very sorry to learn that Dr Arnold Ziff died yesterday (14 July).

An exceptionally gifted businessman who chaired the family company, Stylo plc, until 2000, and also founded the development company Town Centre Securities plc, Dr Ziff was one of the University's staunchest supporters and most generous benefactors. He served with distinction and dedication as a member of the Council from 1985 until 1996, and of the Court from 1985 to 2001.

His considerable commercial acumen was deployed to the University's advantage in a whole host of ways; his help and support were invaluable, for example, in the development of the Western Campus (the former site of Leeds Grammar School). Dr Ziff took a keen interest in the cultural life of the institution and was a long-standing Honorary Vice-President of the Friends of University Art and Music.

His long and distinguished public service, including an active association with a wide range of charitable organisations, was recognised by the University through the award of an Honorary Doctorate of Laws to Dr Ziff in 1993.

Dr Ziff was an exceptionally generous benefactor of the University, the most recent manifestation of which was the donation by him and his wife of the magnificent Steinway Concert Grand Piano for the recently refurbished Clothworkers' Centenary Concert Hall.

The University has lost a valued and cherished friend.

Published: 15 July 2004