CBI Appoints Sir Rupert Soames as President Amid Reputation Rebuild

The former Serco CEO and critic of ethical investing takes the helm as the organization seeks to recover from a sexual misconduct scandal.

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has appointed Sir Rupert Soames, a critic of ethical investing and former Serco chief executive, as its next president.
The appointment comes as the CBI seeks to rebuild its reputation following a sexual misconduct scandal that led to an exodus of its largest members.
Sir Rupert Soames, who is also the chair of medical devices company Smith & Nephew, will take over from Brian McBride early next year before facing a confirmation vote at the CBI's annual general meeting in June 2024.
During his tenure at Serco, Sir Rupert clashed with ethical investors over claims they were making it harder to defend and police Britain.
The CBI, once Britain’s biggest lobbying group, is now trying to regain influence at the highest levels across the UK.