Ann Prendergast, Executive Vice President and Head of EMEA at State Street Investment Management, has been appointed as the new Chair of the Investment Association’s (IA) Board of Directors.
As Chair of the Board, Ann will be responsible for championing the investment management industry and the role it plays in both driving economic growth and building the financial resilience of households across the UK. The IA Board is made up of senior leaders from across the investment management industry and plays an influential role in helping the sector navigate and respond to the evolving geopolitical, market and regulatory landscape.
Ann, who joined the IA Board in May 2024, will replace Patrick Thomson, CEO, EMEA, J.P. Morgan Asset Management and assume the role of chair at the AGM on 17 September 2025. She has over 30 years of experience in the investment management industry, including two decades at State Street Investment Management.
Patrick Thomson, outgoing Chair of the Investment Association Board, said:
“It has been an immense privilege to lead the IA Board and work alongside such an impressive group of industry leaders. During my three-year tenure, I’ve seen significant change as the industry recovered from the impact of the pandemic, responded to remarkable technological advances and evolved to meet changing investor demands. I have been proud to play my part in steering the industry through these unprecedented times, in particular our successful call for the FCA to embrace a growth and competitiveness agenda.”
Ann Prendergast, Executive Vice President and Head of EMEA at State Street Investment Management, commented:
“The role the investment management industry can play in delivering the UK’s growth agenda has never been more apparent, and I am delighted to have been selected as Chair of the IA’s Board at this pivotal moment. Our collective voice will be crucial in furthering the productive partnership between government and regulator, ensuring the UK is a highly attractive location both to invest in and from, and driving the best outcomes for savers across the country. I look forward to working closely with my fellow Board Members, Chris Cummings and everyone at the IA to champion our industry.”
Chris Cummings, Chief Executive of the IA, said:
“I am delighted to welcome Ann Prendergast as Chair of the Investment Association Board. Ann’s extensive experience, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to our industry make her exceptionally well-suited to lead us through this pivotal period. Her deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing investment management, combined with her proven track record of championing innovation and diversity, ensure she will be a powerful advocate for our members and the savers we serve across the UK. I would also like to extend my thanks to Patrick Thomson for his three years as IA chair. Patrick has been a true advocate for, and leader, of the industry during his tenure.”
