The former royal PR set to take charge at the IoD
THE Institute of Directors has appointed Simon Walker as its next director general. Formerly chief executive officer of the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association, Walker succeeds Miles Templeman, beginning his seven-year term in October.
Walker, who brings experience from both business and political sectors, has held senior executive positions at firms such as Reuters, British Airways and the Brunswick Group.
He is a council member of the European Policy Forum and served as communications secretary to the Queen and special adviser to former prime minister John Major.
Commenting on his appointment, Walker said: “I will be campaigning for growth and the competitiveness of British business.”
Walker believes that the country has an “excessively high” tax burden, with an “over-regulated” labour market, adding: “Britain has lost its competitive edge and radical reform is the only route to sustainable growth, stability and long-term job and wealth creation.”
Given his experience of the workings of government, Walker should be a valuable asset to the IoD.
The non-partisan group, founded in 1903, aims to represent the interests of directors to government.