BGF appoints Ian Livingston as its Non-Executive Chair

BGF is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian Livingston (Lord Livingston of Parkhead) as Non-Executive Chair. Ian brings extensive corporate expertise from leadership roles in some of the UK’s most well-known businesses.

His previous notable Chairmanships include Currys plc and Man Group plc, in addition to currently serving as senior independent director of National Grid plc and non-executive director of S&P Global. He was Chief Executive of BT Group plc from 2008 to 2013. Earlier in his career, he spent over a decade at Dixons Group, including six years as CFO, and before that worked at private equity firm 3i.

Ian also served as Minister of State for Trade and Investment and is a member of the House of Lords.

Ian Livingston said: “I am proud to be joining the Board of BGF, an organisation with a clear purpose, which plays such a critical role in offering long-term investment for growth companies across the UK and Ireland. I am looking forward to working closely with Andy and the Board as BGF continues its mission, providing more businesses with the funding and support they need to flourish.”

Ian joins the Board with effect from January 2024. Following his appointment, Neil Johnson, who was acting Chair, will revert to his Deputy Chair position. Neil intends to retire from the Board and leave BGF in mid-2024 after serving 12 successful years on the Board.

Andy Gregory, CEO at BGF said: “I am delighted to welcome Ian to the Board as Non-Executive Chair. He has an extraordinary track record and a depth of experience, which will be invaluable to BGF. I look forward to working with him as we continue to deepen our regional investment platform to support growth in the UK and Ireland’s most ambitious companies.”

Neil Johnson said: “Having led the search for BGF’s new Chair, I am delighted, as is the entire Board, to have attracted Ian Livingston to the role. He will bring a fresh perspective to the pivotal positioning of BGF in encouraging innovation and investment in the UK and Ireland’s SME segment. “I welcome Ian’s appointment and look forward to supporting him during his induction and as BGF’s Board evolves for future growth and success.”