New non-executive director Anthony Brooke failed to endear himself to Alliance Trust’s shareholders after stating he knew little about the business.
In his first public pronouncement since being named alongside Rory Macnamara and Peter Chambers as Elliott’s independent NED nominees for the trust’s board last month, the former banker admitted he had little understanding of the company’s operations.
“I have no knowledge of Alliance Trust other than (what is) in the press and public domain,” Mr Brooke told shareholders at Wednesday’s AGM in the Gardyne Theatre.
However, he said it was obvious from what he had heard during the meeting that change was necessary and he was looking forward to the challenge ahead.
“First, I am very pleased to be joining the board,” he said.
“The second thing, you can be absolutely assured that I will be completely independent of Elliott.
“I understand the nature of company law and the requirements of a non-executive director completely.
“Third, I look forward to working with the board of executive to further all shareholders’ interests.
“That said, I am convinced that change is something that is necessary as we have heard.
“I passionately believe that standing still is not a solution.”
Mr Macnamara, the other new non-exec, was not present at the meeting.