IoD appoints James Keeling as Hertfordshire chair

 The Institute of Directors (IoD) has appointed James Keeling to lead its Hertfordshire branch. 

James is Chief Financial Officer at Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, established by GSK and the Wellcome Trust in 2010 to create a world-class cluster of companies accelerating the translation of cutting-edge science to improve the health and quality of people’s lives.

The hub is home to major organisations including GSK, the Cell and Gene Therapy Manufacturing Catapult, LifeArc and Cytiva alongside a growing number of start-up companies.

The IoD supports members to become better directors. James will work alongside a team of branch ambassadors to provide connections, professional development opportunities and an influential lobbying voice in the area.

James started his career as a research scientist spending 10 years in drug discovery with the Wellcome Foundation and GlaxoWellcome. He went on to qualify as an accountant and held senior roles in blue chip companies including GlaxoSmithKline and BT, both in the UK and internationally.

His main focus in recent years has been to guide start up and growth companies, on their strategy to drive innovation, sustainable profitable growth, investment and finance solutions.

He said: “I am looking forward to working with colleagues to grow the IoD’s Hertfordshire branch, enabling members to improve their networks and professional development as businesses across the region look to seize the opportunities available to build back from the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

IoD East of England Chair Biplab Rakshi said: “I’m delighted to welcome James to the team. He brings a wealth of financial and leadership experience which will be a great asset to our members as we support them in their journey with the IoD.”

Better directors for a better world

The IoD supports directors and business leaders across the UK and beyond to learn, network and build successful, responsible businesses.
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