Border to Coast, the largest local government pension scheme (LGPS) pool, has said that John Lister will succeed Chris Hitchen as chair, taking on the role at the start of October.
He brings with him a wealth of experience, with almost a decade as a non-executive across many large financial firms – most notably spending four years as chair of Phoenix Group Life Companies.
He also spent more than 30 years at Aviva – including as its chief risk officer, as well as chief financial officer at Aviva UK Life.
Lister will join the pool’s board at the start of September, before becoming chair from 1 October – subject to FCA approval.
Commenting on his appointment, councillor George Jabbour – chair of Border to Coast’s joint committee, said: “Chris Hitchen has been instrumental in establishing Border to Coast and overseeing its success to date and I look forward to continuing to work together until he steps down in September.
“Following a competitive search, we’re really pleased to have John joining Border to Coast. This is a critical appointment for the company as it enters its next strategic phase and faces new government requirements on the future of the LGPS and pooling.”
Lister added: “I’m arriving at Border to Coast at an exciting time of change in the LGPS. As a key actor in UK investment, private markets, and responsible investment, it’s clear that the impact Border to Coast – and its partner funds – can have in the coming years can be greater than ever.”
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