- Scott McDonald, currently President and Chief Executive of global consultancy firm Oliver Wyman Group will become British Council Chief Executive from 01 September
- Current Interim CEO, Kate-Ewart Biggs, to become British Council Deputy Chief Executive
Today (01 June), the British Council announces the appointment of global business leader Scott McDonald as its new Chief Executive, effective 01 September. He succeeds Interim CEO Kate-Ewart Biggs who will move into the role of Deputy Chief Executive.
As Chief Executive, McDonald will lead the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, providing strategic direction to the British Council as it continues to build connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts, education and English language teaching.
McDonald is currently Chief Executive and President of Oliver Wyman Group, a global management consultancy firm and Vice-Chairman of Marsh McLennan, a leading professional services firm.
Scott McDonald, incoming CEO, said: “It is a huge privilege to be joining the British Council at this important moment in its history. I am looking forward to working with the passionate colleagues who work so hard to deliver the best of the UK’s cultural and educational opportunities around the world. The UK has the ability to make enormous contributions to the world and the British Council is a critical part of ensuring a strong future global role for the UK. I am delighted to be part of the team on that journey.”
Stevie Spring, Chairman, British Council, said: “I am absolutely delighted to welcome Scott to the British Council. His extensive global experience, impressive track record, inclusive management style and passion for culture and education are exactly what we need to steer the organisation through this post Covid-19 period and beyond. I know he’ll be a valuable addition to the team.”
Dominic Raab, Britain’s Foreign Secretary, said, “The British Council is a vital soft power asset for the UK. Its leadership matters and I’m delighted that Scott McDonald will become the Council’s new CEO. I look forward to working with him to further the British Council’s ongoing success in promoting Global Britain.”
ENDS