**UK Billionaire Michael Spencer Appoints New CEO for Family Office**
UK billionaire Michael Spencer has appointed Simon Brazier, a seasoned veteran from Schroders Plc, as the new CEO of his family office, IPGL. This strategic move aims to enhance the investment capabilities of one of Britain’s largest fortunes. Brazier, who has over a decade of experience at Schroders, will officially take on the role starting August 18. He succeeds Seth Johnson, a former Nex executive, who briefly held the position after the previous CEO left for personal reasons.
Brazier, a British native and experienced fund manager, will collaborate with Johnson and Spencer during a transition period at IPGL. The family office recently reported net assets of £995.2 million ($1.4 billion) and holds investments in various companies, including Chapel Down Group Plc, a wine producer, and cybersecurity firm Glasswall.
This leadership change reflects Spencer’s strategy to bring in external expertise to manage a firm that ranks among London’s largest family offices, with interests in over a dozen companies globally. Spencer, who built his fortune through ICAP Plc—NEX’s predecessor—has a history of hiring individuals with whom he has previously worked. He praised Brazier as “a natural leader with deep investment insight, sound judgment, and a strong ethical compass,” emphasizing his long-term vision and ability to generate value.
The finance chief at IPGL, Karina Curtis, also has a background with ICAP, and former CEO Samantha Wren spent nearly a decade in senior roles there. Additionally, Piers Davison, a former banker at JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Citigroup Inc., joined IPGL as a non-executive director in late 2024, having advised Spencer on significant transactions in the past.
Spencer, who previously served as treasurer for the Conservative Party, sold Nex to CME Group Inc. in 2018 for £3.9 billion. Brazier, a graduate of the University of Durham with a degree in Economics and French, began his career at Schroders in the late 1990s, later leading the firm’s UK equity funds. He transitioned to Threadneedle Investments in 2009 and subsequently held a similar role at Investec Plc’s asset-management division.
In summary, the appointment of Simon Brazier as CEO marks a significant step in the evolution of IPGL, positioning the family office for future growth and investment success.
**FAQ**
**What is IPGL and who is its founder?**
IPGL is a family office founded by UK billionaire Michael Spencer, managing significant investments across various sectors.