His study in mathematics at Durham University in UK had led him towards accountancy and KPMG. Starting out with audit, due diligence, IPOs and other advisory work, Mr Harrison became a Partner of the firm in 1987 and eventually Chairman and CEO of KPMG China and Hong Kong, as well as Chairman of KPMG Asia Pacific, from 2003-2009. After retirement, he took up independent non-executive directorships at many major firms in Hong Kong. He first served HKUST in 2008, and assumed various positions at its Council thereafter. He is now an Honorary Court Member of HKUST.