We are deeply saddened to share the news that LSE alumnus, Emeritus Governor and Honorary Fellow, Ian Hay Davison CBE has passed away at the age of 91.
Ian was a devoted supporter and advocate of LSE. He demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting students through his philanthropy, and through advising LSE as member of LSE Court.
Ian Hay Davison attended Dulwich College and then the London School of Economics before completing postgraduate studies at the University of Michigan, USA.
Ian’s formidable career in finance included several high-profile regulatory roles, including chairman of the Accounting Standards Committee, Department of Trade & Industry inspector and member of the Audit Commission, before being asked by the Bank of England to become the Chief Executive and Deputy Chairman of Lloyd’s of London. He retired in 2004 but carried on as Chairman of investment firm Ruffer until 2011.
Ian’s legacy is not limited to the world of finance having spent much of his later life focusing on the arts as a trustee of the V&A and a director of the Royal Opera House, to name but a few of the voluntary roles he took on. His passion for trains also led him to become a member of the Railway Heritage Committee.
We send our deep condolences to his wife, Morny, and his loved ones.
Written by Helen Jones, Global Director of Development, LSE
Always kind and supportive He will be greatly missed
I first knew Ian as a prominent Tory at LSE and in the University of London in the early 50s. I admired then the confident articulate and decisive manner that carried him on to professional success and eminence. In recent years I admired his panache driving the mobility scooter that took him everywhere, regularly to Shaw library lunches, and to a place alongside mine at a memorable dinner this year.
He was admittedly something of a disruptor in his important roles at Lloyds, in Dubai and in Hong Kong, quick to condemn market ill-practices regardless of the hackles raised. Yet they will all be much the better for his brave and insightful criticisms. His friends will miss his warm company and enthusiastic conversation. Our hearts go out to Morny, his widow.