The British Business Bank announces new leadership with the appointment of Leandros Kalisperas as chief investment officer.
The British Business Bank has ushered in fresh leadership by appointing Leandros Kalisperas as its new chief investment officer, effective January 2025. With a robust background accumulated over two decades, including pivotal roles at abrdn and the Universities Superannuation Scheme, Kalisperas is poised to lead the Bank’s comprehensive investment strategy. His responsibilities will cover all investment activities, notably its commercial subsidiaries, British Business Investments and British Patient Capital, in addition to the recently inaugurated Nations and Regions Investment Funds and the Enterprise Capital Funds programme.
In a statement, Louis Taylor, CEO of the British Business Bank, underscored the importance of Kalisperas’s appointment. “Last month, the Chancellor announced a package of measures that has the potential to unlock billions of pounds of additional investment for the UK’s fastest growing and most innovative companies,” Taylor noted, highlighting the economic boost expected from these measures. He expressed confidence in Kalisperas’s ability to build upon the Bank’s already strong investment capabilities, particularly within London and Sheffield.
Kalisperas himself has expressed enthusiasm about his new role, recognising the Bank’s commitment to driving economic growth throughout the UK. He looks forward to collaborating with partners to enhance existing efforts and synchronise them with the evolving demands of private capital. His appointment is particularly timely, coinciding with strategic opportunities recently outlined by government initiatives.
Complementing this leadership change, the Bank has also established a new entity named BBB Patient Capital Advisory Services, appointing Ian Connatty as its inaugural managing partner. Connatty, who currently serves as the deputy chief investment officer, will maintain his position as he transitions to this new role. His responsibilities will include directing the British Growth Partnership’s regulatory and investment strategies, as well as spearheading fundraising and investor relations activities.
Connatty remarked on the significance of his new position: “It is an honour to be taking on the role of managing partner, British Growth Partnership at such an exciting time for the Bank.” With the Partnership aiming to make its first investments by mid-2025, it positions itself as a key player in upcoming UK investment ventures.
These strategic appointments signify an ambitious approach towards stimulating economic growth through enhanced investment management.
