Kneeshaw to Retire as IFGL CEO in 2025; Successor Announcement in April
Portfolio - People | Mar 19, 2025 | EIN
David Kneeshaw, the CEO of International Financial Group Limited (IFGL), is set to retire in May 2025. While stepping down from his full-time role, he will continue as a special adviser to the IFGL Board and is expected to serve as chairman of IFGL's business in the DIFC, subject to regulatory approval. Kneeshaw's successor, an external appointee, will be announced in April 2025. Kneeshaw's tenure at IFGL began in 2004, and he has been instrumental in guiding the company through significant growth, including a management-led buyout, multiple strategic acquisitions, and the recent investment by private equity firm Cinven. After two decades of transformative leadership, Kneeshaw reflects on a successful career which saw the company expand significantly in scale and capability with a continued focus on organic growth and M&A strategy. Looking forward, the company remains committed to further M&A opportunities while investing in its technological infrastructure.
Sectors
- Financial Services
- Private Equity
Geography
- United Kingdom – IFGL and its businesses have roots in the UK, with the article detailing significant operations and strategic decisions evolving from there.
- United Arab Emirates – The article discusses IFGL's business presence at the DIFC in the UAE, underlining its geographical importance.
Industry
- Financial Services – The article primarily discusses IFGL, a company operating within financial services, including aspects of M&A, market expansion, and private equity investment.
- Private Equity – Mention of Cinven's investment in IFGL highlights the role of private equity in the company's strategy and growth trajectory.
Financials
- – No specific financial figures such as deal prices or revenue were mentioned in the article.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Kneeshaw | Retiring CEO | Person | Current CEO of IFGL, who has overseen major growth and strategic acquisitions during his tenure. |
| International Financial Group Limited (IFGL) | Target Company | Company | A significant player in financial services, known for strategic growth via M&A and private equity backing. |
| Cinven | Major Investor | Company | Private equity firm that became majority shareholder in IFGL in 2023. |
| Royal London | Former Owner | Company | Previous owner of IFGL before its management-led buyout. |
| Simon Pack | Sales Director | Person | Instrumental in devising strategies for IFGL alongside Kneeshaw. |
| Mike Crellin | Managing Director | Person | Key figure in IFGL's strategic planning and growth alongside Kneeshaw. |