Ex-Credit Suisse banker Kilsby named as new Shire chairman
FORMER Credit Suisse banker Susan Kilsby will become the second female chairman of a FTSE 100 company, after drug manufacturer Shire unveiled her appointment yesterday.
Kilsby, who is currently chairman of Shire’s audit, compliance and risk committee, will take over from Matthew Emmens, effective from 29 April. She worked at the Swiss investment bank for over 30 years, holding senior roles including chairman of mergers and acquisitions for the EMEA region.
“I would like to thank Matt Emmens for his many contributions to Shire during the last decade,” said Shire’s deputy chair David Kappler. “Susan will build on the strong current board dynamics and will make an excellent chairman.”
“[Kilsby’s] appointment demonstrates the continued momentum behind appointing women on merit and without the need for quotas,” said Helena Morrissey, chief executive of Newton Investment Management and founder of the 30% Club.
Shire’s shares closed 0.6 per cent lower yesterday.