Christopher Campbell (accountant)
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Christopher James Campbell CBE (2 January 1936 – 19 July 2023) was a British accountant.
Early life and education[edit]
Born in Kenton, Middlesex, the younger son of David Campbell and Nettie Phyllis Burgess, he experienced the loss of his mother at the age of eight.[1][2] He was educated at Epsom College, where he demonstrated proficiency in mathematics, which led him to pursue a career in accountancy.[1][2]
Career[edit]
Campbell served in the Royal Army Pay Corps and the Honourable Artillery Company from 1959 to 1963, achieving the rank of captain-paymaster.[2] His subsequent career in the private sector included a role at Debenhams, where he was appointed as a director.[1][2] He was also involved with The Bow Group, a conservative think tank, which expanded his network in political and business communities.[2]
In 1989, Campbell was appointed chairman of British Shipbuilders during its transition towards privatisation.[1][2] During his chairmanship at British Shipbuilders, Campbell faced challenges, particularly with the closure of Northeast Shipbuilders, and led negotiations including a notable lawsuit with Trafalgar House.[2]
His appointment to oversee the privatization of British Rail's non-passenger operations was met with skepticism from some quarters due to his lack of direct experience in the railway industry.[2] His work contributed to the restructuring and privatization of parts of British Rail ahead of the 1997 general election.[2]
Awards and honours[edit]
In 1993, Campbell was appointed CBE.[1]