LINK, the UK’s cash access and ATM network, has appointed Tom Ilube CBE as its new chairman. Ilube joins LINK with a distinguished record of leadership across technology, education, financial services, and national institutions. He currently serves as chairman of The King’s Trust UK and sits on the board as non-executive director of WPP plc.

Past Roles and Achievements

Previously, he served on the board of the BBC and was chairman of the Rugby Football Union from 2021 to 2024. Within financial services, Ilube was part of the original founding team of Egg Bank, the pioneering internet bank.

Also, he founded Noddle, a credit reporting service, as part of CallCredit, now Transunion, which eventually grew to four million users and was acquired by US-based Credit Karma in 2019. Additionally, he previously served on NatWest Group’s Technology Advisory Board.

Commitment to Education and Philanthropy

Meanwhile, Ilube was founding chairman of Hammersmith Academy, chairman of ADA College, the UK’s National College for Digital Skills, and founding chairman of the British education charity, the African Gifted Foundation.

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Interestingly, he began his career with several leading financial institutions, including Goldman Sachs, PwC, and the London Stock Exchange. He was awarded a CBE in 2018 for services to technology and philanthropy and is an honorary fellow of both Jesus College, Oxford, and St Anne’s College, Oxford.

Vision for LINK

So, expressing enthusiasm, Ilube said he is excited to join LINK at such an important time for the future of payments in the UK. He noted that access to cash remains vital for millions of people and businesses, emphasizing that ensuring no one is left behind as payments evolve is a responsibility he takes seriously. He highlighted LINK’s critical role in maintaining cash access while supporting the UK through a rapidly changing financial landscape.

LINK Welcomes New Chairman

However, John Howells, chief executive of LINK, stated that the organization is delighted to welcome Ilube as chairman. He said Ilube’s breadth of experience across technology, financial services, national institutions, and charitable organisations will be invaluable at a pivotal moment for the UK’s payments infrastructure. Howells expressed his eagerness to work closely with Ilube.

Transition of Leadership

Ilube succeeds Sir Mark Boleat, who stands down after completing three terms as chairman. LINK continues to operate the UK’s largest ATM network and plays a crucial role in ensuring access to cash across the country as digital payments continue to grow.