BT’s wonder boss takes her chance after snub by Man United
- Allison Kirkby, who became BT's chief executive in February 2024, previously aimed to be Manchester United's chief financial officer in 2014.
- Under her leadership, BT's share price increased by 27%, raising the company's valuation significantly to £13.8 billion.
- Kirkby has effectively addressed the challenges within the telecom industry, marking a successful stage in her career.
Allison Kirkby, originally from Glasgow, has recently transitioned into the role of chief executive at BT, starting on February 1, 2024. Her previous ambition to become the chief financial officer of Manchester United in 2014 was a significant aspiration that did not come to fruition. However, this setback seems to have propelled her towards a more expansive role in the telecommunications industry. Since joining BT, Kirkby has demonstrated effective leadership skills amid various challenges facing the telecom sector. These include structural, technological, and regulatory issues that have plagued the industry for years. Kirkby’s proactive approach in addressing these concerns has been instrumental in rejuvenating BT's market performance. Notably, her leadership has led to remarkable financial results, with BT’s share price rising by 27% since she took charge, significantly increasing the company's market valuation to £13.8 billion. This contrasts sharply with the current valuation of Manchester United at £2.1 billion, illustrating her successful impact on BT in a short period. Kirkby’s achievements have garnered praise from analysts and investors alike, strengthening her position as a transformative leader within BT and showcasing her potential in steering the company toward sustainable growth and profitability in the future.