U3A elects retired financier as its new Chair

THE National Charity U3A (University of the Third Age) has elected retired City economist and banker, Ian McCannah, as its new Chair.

The charity supports retired and semi-retired people, in their third stage of life, to come together and continue their learning and interests in a relaxed and informal environment.

Ian, 72, will chair the Third Age Trust which supports 1,030 U3As across the country. He said, “I am delighted to be elected Chair at our AGM and look forward to leading the movement over the next three years.

“Incoming Chairmen usually lay out their aims for their term of office but I am in a slightly unusual position that I have been very involved in the consultation about the Trust’s new three year Development Plan, and my direction has been set by the members. It will be my job to make sure that the plan is successfully delivered – an exciting and challenging position to be in.”

Ian retired early, aged 55, having started his career as an economist at the Bank of England.  He then went on to work in the international division of a Canadian Bank in London. His final years in banking involved establishing a bullion department specialising in gold and silver services – to central banks, mining, refinery and jewellery manufacturers – around the world.

Ian’s finance and governance expertise, acquired as a  Non-Executive director of an overseas bank in London for twelve years, fits well to his new role with the U3A. “Banking is obviously about finance but it is also about ensuring good practice, making sure the organisation is fit for purpose and supportive of the members and staff in the organisation”

As soon as Ian retired, he joined Potters Bar U3A in 2002, rapidly becoming an active member and going on to set up a new U3A in Barnet in 2007. Further U3A roles have included Regional Trustee for London, Vice Chair and now Chairman. 

Ian said, “That grass roots experience is essential to being chair of the U3A. When making decisions for the Trust I always think of how they will affect and be received by U3A members at all levels.”

New U3As are opening at around 5% and 10% every year – providing approximately 40,000 interest groups for members to participate in.

The charity recently released new research which detailed how continuing to learn together can help combat loneliness. The report showed a sustainable and positive approach to ageing built on group learning, skill sharing and volunteering.

Ian added “I had an very fulfilling career which took me around the world and gave me challenging opportunities.  In a different way, U3A has continued that experience in retirement and provided a sense of being valued.  U3A shows that you can continue to make a significant contribution to society at whatever age.”

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