Chief Executive Officer

British International Investment plc (BII) is the UK’s development finance institution with a mission to help solve the biggest global development challenges by investing patient, flexible capital to support private sector growth and innovation. We invest to create more productive, sustainable, and inclusive economies in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean, enabling people in those countries to build better lives for themselves and their communities. 

Our sole shareholder is the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and our unique structure combines the best of private sector skills with a public-spirited mission.

Overview of role

We are seeking a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the development of BII's vision, investment strategy, and strategic direction for the current and forthcoming strategy period. Working closely with the Chair and Board, the CEO will clearly articulate the key strategic imperatives of the business to all stakeholders in the UK and overseas, ensuring that BII’s objectives are understood and that a clear sense of purpose and achievement is conveyed. The CEO will further develop existing structures, processes, and a culture appropriate to a high-quality, professional, and modern investment company and foster a culture of high standards, decisiveness, clarity, and high integrity.

Ideal experience

The ideal candidate will have a track record of success leading an international complex organisation through major strategic change, with multiple stakeholders gained in either: a multi-product financial institution, a professional services firm, or a high-profile international development organisation. This will include comfort with financial and investment decision-making in a complex environment and a track record of doing so at scale.

They will be a proven strong and supportive leader personally inspired by poverty alleviation, sustainability and passionate about the impact of development finance.  They will also be comfortable and able to thrive working in an organisation with a public profile, capable of engaging with senior stakeholders including investment leaders, Government Ministers, Parliamentarians, and public scrutiny bodies.

This is an extraordinary opportunity for a highly collaborative, strategic, and mission-driven leader capable of driving the direction and performance of a leading development finance institution.

How to apply

British International Investment plc has partnered with Russell Reynolds Associates to fulfil this mandate.

To apply or for further information about the role please email responses@russellreynolds.com.

Your application should include:

• The role and reference number 2308-081L in the subject line of your email
• Your CV, with educational and professional qualifications and full employment history, including an explanation of any gaps in your employment history, and details where possible of budgets and numbers of people managed
• A short covering statement of no more than two A4 sized pages explaining why this appointment interests you and how you can evidence your suitability for the role, with particular reference to the criteria referenced in the Person Specification.

 Applications should be received by 12.00 on Friday 16th February 2024.