The business on...Ian Coull, Chief executive, Segro
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.So Ian Coull has been paid a big compliment by the market?
Yes, on the day he announced his plans to step down from property company Segro, the shares duly fell, finishing down 2.8p at 296.65p. That suggests investors are sorry to see him going. Having the shares fall when you quit is about the biggest compliment the market can pay to a company boss.
What's he up to then?
Becoming chairman of another property-based company, Galliford Try. Mr Coull is 60 and says he always planned to step upstairs at that age. The demands on a chairman are somewhat lighter than those on a chief executive, so he ought to be able to spend more time with his three grandchildren. That and watching London Scottish rugby club, where he's a director and where he also played in his younger days.
Was he any good, then?
Well, he never achieved a full cap, but he did make several appearances for Scotland B, so he was no slouch. He can take a few knocks too, having played as a back-row forward. After their only season in the top flight of English rugby, London Scottish went into administration and were demoted nine leagues into the amateur ranks. But they have staged an impressive revival since, with six promotions in nine years.
Rugby players seem to do well in business, don't they?
Mr Coull says the game provided him with some useful skills for his business career: "It teaches loyalty, commitment, teamwork and leadership." Being a forward, of course, also prepares you for bruising encounters. Another useful business strength.
Has he always been a property man then?
Well, Mr Coull is a chartered surveyor by trade but he has also worked for Ladbrokes and Sainsbury's for several years. His responsibilities there included the supermaket's property portfolio, but Mr Coull says he did a lot more than that. "I spent 15 years at Sainsbury's and I had other responsibilities as well. My career has been broadly based."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments