Two Prominent Appointments Shake Up UK's Financial and Social Investment Sectors
Two prominent appointments have been made in the UK's financial and social investment sectors. Martin Barrett has been named as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Unity Trust Bank, while Holger Westphely takes over as Managing Director at Big Issue Invest.
Holger Westphely brings a wealth of experience to Big Issue Invest, having spent two decades in finance and social investment. He succeeds Russell Blackman, who held the position since 2021. Westphely will oversee the allocation of funds, with the company having invested over £100m in UK businesses with a social mission since 2005, including £9.3m in 50 organisations in 2025 alone.
Meanwhile, at Unity Trust Bank, Martin Barrett has been appointed as COO. He will play a crucial role in enabling the bank to deliver its five-year plan to 2030. Barrett joins from iGravity, where he was previously co-head of investments alongside Susan Tirop. Tirop, with over 15 years of experience in impact investing and advisory, continues her role at iGravity. Paul de Klerk, formerly chief operating officer, chief financial officer, and chairman of the managing board at AlpInvest Partners, has also been appointed to the supervisory board of ILX Management.
These appointments signal a period of growth and change for these organisations. With their extensive experience, Barrett, Westphely, and de Klerk are expected to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to their respective roles, driving forward the missions of their new employers.
