Border to Coast announces Chris Hitchen successor
Published: July 22, 2025
Border to Coast has announced that John Lister will succeed Chris Hitchen as Chair of the LGPS pool, taking on the role at the start of October.
He brings with him a wealth of experience, with almost a decade as a non-executive across many large financial firms – most notably spending four years as Chair of Phoenix Group Life Companies.
He also spent more than 30 years at Aviva – including as its Chief Risk Officer, as well as Chief Financial Officer at Aviva UK Life.
Lister will join the pool’s board at the start of September, before becoming Chair from 1 October – subject to FCA approval.
Commenting on his appointment, Councillor George Jabbour – Chair of Border to Coast’s Joint Committee – said: “Chris Hitchen has been instrumental in establishing Border to Coast and overseeing its success to date and I look forward to continuing to work together until he steps down in September.
“Following a competitive search, we’re really pleased to have John joining Border to Coast. This is a critical appointment for the company as it enters its next strategic phase and faces new government requirements on the future of the LGPS and pooling.
“Throughout the selection process, John demonstrated clear alignment with our purpose and values, and he has a high calibre of skills and experience which will place us on excellent footing for the organisation’s next chapter.”
Lister added: “I’m arriving at Border to Coast at an exciting time of change in the LGPS. As a key actor in UK investment, private markets, and responsible investment, it’s clear that the impact Border to Coast – and its partner funds – can have in the coming years can be greater than ever.
“I look forward to playing my part, alongside a talented and committed team that really have put partner funds at the heart of everything the organisation strives for.
“I enjoy working for companies that make a positive impact on society and Border to Coast firmly fits that mould. It’s built to enable the payment of pensions to over a million UK workers but seeks to do this through positively performing assets that can also deliver value to society.
“As one of the largest investors of its kind, its increased scale is helping it find innovative ways to power start-ups, deliver local investment and drive UK growth.”
