Claude Littner, the mercilessly tough interviewer on BBC’s hit series, The Apprentice, rose to the challenge of being grilled for a change, by being interviewed in front of a live audience on Tuesday.

Over 300 students, staff and members of the public attended In Conversation with Claude Littner, hosted by the University of West London (UWL), where Claude discussed his new book Single-Minded: My Life in Business and divulged his life story; inspiring the audience with confessions from his school days through to the stories behind his prolific business career which has earned him a reputation as one of Britain’s business icons.

The interview, conducted by former BBC correspondent Torin Douglas, MBE, began by uncovering the real story from behind the scenes of The Apprentice, and went on to explore Claude’s success spanning several high profile companies.

Further highlights of the night included Claude sharing how, from being condemned to the back of the classroom in his school days, he came to graduate from UWL; later bestowing the University with the honour of associating his name with their Business School.

The live audience also had their opportunity to grill Claude further on a range of issues, which was then followed by a book signing with guests queuing for nearly two hours for time with the star of the evening.

UWL’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost for Health, Professor Anthony Woodman said: “We knew this event would be special and this has surpassed all of our expectations. Claude is a great inspiration to us all and UWL has the privilege to be beneficiaries of his time and support through The Claude Littner Business School.”