Gary Lubner
Philanthropist & Former CEO of Belron
During his 22 years as CEO, sales grew over 7 times to circa 6 billion euros, leading to a valuation of 21 billion euros in 2021. The business employs over 30,000 people in 38 countries. Gary retired in early 2023 but continues to sit on the Board.
Gary grew up in South Africa, where he studied Finance and Accountancy at the University of Cape Town. He subsequently did an MBA at London Business School and has since funded the Gary Lubner Scholarship at LBS, to support African students. During the 1980s in South Africa, he was active in the anti-apartheid struggle.
Throughout his working life, Gary has championed philanthropy. He encouraged Belron employees to give back by backing hundreds of charities around the world, volunteering and taking part in the Spirit of Belron Challenge. This sporting event, started by Gary and six colleagues, grew to 12,000 participating employees in 2023, raising tens of millions for Afrika Tikkun, a charity in South Africa. Gary has participated in the triathlon annually since its inception.
Gary founded This Day Foundation, which seeks to create a fairer future for new generations. In South Africa, the Foundation works on childhood development, ending youth unemployment and supporting a stronger civil society. In the UK, the foundation aims for all young people to have access to opportunity, with a focus on refugees seeking sanctuary. Gary believes positive change only happens with strong leaders, so This Day also provides Leadership Development.
Gary is active on a number of charity boards, including the Nelson Mandela Legacy Trust, Afrika Tikkun and One to One Children’s Fund.
Gary supported the Labour Party financially in the build-up to their successful 2024 election. He hopes that Labour will give rise to a more egalitarian and just society in Britain