British Business Bank names new general counsel

The British Business Bank has appointed Elizabeth O’Neill as its new general counsel and company secretary.

O’Neill (pictured) will start in her new role on 15 February. She will replace Shanika Amarasekara MBE, who has been appointed as the British Business Bank’s executive committee member responsible for ESG, economics, policy and strategy.

O’Neill has more than 20 years’ experience advising on EU competition law, international law and corporate governance.

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She was formerly head legal adviser for the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) where she led a large in-house legal team advising the MHRA Board and the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

Prior to this, she served as general counsel and member of executive committee for UK Government Investments Ltd, and head of state aid and commercial law for the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills, where she worked on the set up for both the Green Investment Bank and the British Business Bank.

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“I am excited to be joining the British Business Bank at such an important time, as it focuses on supporting smaller businesses which are so critical to the country’s economic recovery,” said O’Neill.

“I look forward to working with a highly accomplished team, contributing to strong governance, and ensuring that the interests of small businesses, the bank and its stakeholders are protected.”

Catherine Lewis La Torre, chief executive of the British Business bank added: “Elizabeth has a breadth of knowledge and depth of industry experience and we are delighted to welcome her to the bank as general counsel.

“The leadership and expertise that she brings will be invaluable as the bank continues to grow and support the UK’s economy.”

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