Most impressively though he managed to attain a double First in classics, ancient history and philosophy. Immediately after leaving Oxford College in 1966, Nicholas became a lecturer in philosophy at Reading University, remaining there until 1974, when he joined the UK Civil Service as a Direct Entry-Principal.
After his educational years, he went on to serve nearly three decades working for the government. Regardless of the department, he most likely spent some time working there. Well known for a number of things, the changes he made to privatise the train system in the UK was quite well known.
In 1997 he was appointed Chairman of the Inland Revenue and, over the next seven years, Nicholas changed the culture of the Department, making it more outward-facing and responsive to its customers, and took a particular interest in diversity, for which he was appointed the Civil Service Diversity Champion. Montagu also chaired the Civil Service Benevolent Fund.
His career came to a halt in 2004, but he still actively retains a position of respect – thus he does still pursue some business activities.
Voted the Personality of the Year by the readers of Accountancy Age, Nicholas is known for his ability to blend wit and charisma with intellect and serious economic practice. He is frequently called upon to appear as a business speaker at financial and political after dinner speaker events as well at corporate functions.
