Allison Kirkby

Allison Kirkby

Allison Kirkby is a distinguished business executive known for her impactful leadership in the telecommunications and media industries. Born in Scotland, she studied Accounting and Business Law at the University of Strathclyde, which provided her with a solid foundation in financial management and corporate governance. Kirkby began her career in finance with companies like Guinness PLC and Procter & Gamble before transitioning into the telecommunications sector with senior roles at Virgin Media, where she played a crucial part in driving the company’s growth and operational efficiency.

Kirkby’s career trajectory took a significant turn when she joined Tele2, a European telecom operator, as Chief Financial Officer in 2014 and then became CEO in 2015. At Tele2, she led a transformative period focused on customer-centric innovation, digitalization, and cost efficiency, enhancing the company’s market position and achieving sustainable growth. In 2020, she was appointed President and CEO of Telia Company, where she has continued to prioritize digital transformation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. Under her leadership, Telia has strengthened its position as a leading telecommunications provider in the Nordic and Baltic regions.

Beyond her executive roles, Allison Kirkby is recognized for her advocacy of diversity and inclusion, particularly in promoting gender equality and empowering women in leadership. Her visionary leadership and strategic foresight have earned her numerous accolades, solidifying her reputation as one of the most influential figures in the telecommunications and media sectors. Kirkby’s commitment to innovation and her ability to drive significant organizational change have positioned her as a key player in shaping the future of digital services and telecommunications.

Allison chairs the Executive Committee and is a member of the National Security and Investigatory Powers Committee.

From May 2020 until being appointed Chief Executive of BT Group, Allison was President & CEO of Telia Company. Allison was previously President & Group CEO of TDC Group until October 2019, and President & Group CEO of Tele2 AB from 2015 to 2018, having been Tele2 AB’s Group CFO from 2014. She was Chair of the Audit Committee and a Non-Executive Director of Greggs until May 2019. She has also held financial and operational roles within 21st Century Fox, Virgin Media, Procter & Gamble and Guinness.

Valuable and recent experience in the international telecoms and media sector, combined with significant experience in transformation, driving performance, improving customer service and delivering shareholder value.

Non-Executive Director and member of the Audit Committee of Brookfield Asset Management Limited.