CBI confirms Lord Bilimoria as new CBI Vice President & John Allan re-elected for second one year term as President

Karan, Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea has been confirmed as CBI Vice President following a vote at the CBI’s AGM. Paul Drechsler CBE has now stepped down as Vice President, and from the CBI Board after six years’ tenure. Meanwhile, John Allan CBE returns as President for a second one-year term.

Nearly 90% of AGM participants backed Lord Bilimoria’s nomination.

Lord Bilimoria is one of the country’s leading entrepreneurs. He founded Cobra Beer in 1989 - and remains its Chairman to this day - and was also founding Chairman on the UK-India Business Council.

Further details on Lord Bilimoria’s career in business and politics can be found here.

On John Allan’s re-election as CBI President, Carolyn Fairbairn, CBI Director-General, said: “I would like to thank John for bringing to bear his experience and expert guidance across all areas of CBI policy since becoming President, and look forward to another year of close collaboration.”

On Lord Bilimoria’s election as CBI Vice-President, John Allan, said:

“We are lucky to have such a well-respected entrepreneur whose experiences reflect both the highs and lows of starting and growing a business.”

On Paul Drechsler concluding his tenure as CBI Vice President and CBI Board member, John Allan said:

“Paul’s commitment to the CBI, as demonstrated by extending his tenure as President during such a tumultuous time for British business and politics, is greatly appreciated. He leaves with our very best wishes, knowing he will continue to be a fantastic advocate for firms of all sizes and sectors right across the UK.”

On the conclusion of his term of office, and as a CBI Board member, Paul Drechsler said:

“In more than six years on the CBI’s Board I have been lucky enough to work alongside some fantastic colleagues who work hard every day to help business create a more prosperous and inclusive society.”