FTSE chair and former CEO Rupert Soames to be next CBI President

The CBI’s top governance bodies, including the CBI Board, have today approved the nomination of Rupert Soames OBE, as the next President of the CBI.

Rupert Soames will work with the current President to permit a smooth transition early in the New Year. As with previous appointments, and in line with the CBI’s Royal Charter, Rupert will be formally elected by members at the next AGM in June 2024.

Soames started his career at the General Electric Company (GEC) and brings to the CBI nearly 40 years of experience running global businesses in manufacturing, services, IT, and engineering. Having been one of the longest-serving public company CEOs in the UK – including 11 years at Aggreko and 9 years at Serco – he brings with him a wealth of boardroom experience from some of the biggest companies in the UK.

Currently serving as Chair of FTSE medical technology manufacturer Smith & Nephew, and with over 20 years of board experience, Soames will also provide deep experience in corporate governance.

Brian McBride, outgoing CBI President, said:  

“I’m pleased to announce that after a robust search process, Rupert Soames will be taking on the role as the next President of the CBI.

“With the CBI back influencing at the highest levels across the UK again, there is no better person to pass the baton to. Rupert’s track record as one of the UK’s longest serving and most successful CEO’s makes him the ideal choice.”

Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Executive, said:

“Rupert is a fantastic advocate for UK business, and I am delighted to enter the new year working alongside someone with his depth and breadth of experience to ensure the CBI delivers a strong voice for our members, trade associations and for the UK business community.

“As we head into 2024, leadership from business is vital in delivering sustainable growth and a positive vision for the UK economy, and I look forward to delivering that together.”

Rupert Soames, incoming CBI President, said:

"I am pleased and honoured to have been nominated to be the next President of the CBI. After a decade of disruption and distraction due to Brexit, Covid, inflation and labour shortages, business and government need to work closely together to deliver a prosperous future where economic growth will lift living standards and sustainably fund the UK’s vital public services.

“The CBI is needed more now than at almost any time in its history, and it will be a privilege to lead the organisation in the coming years."