Hili Ventures appoints Archie Bethel CBE as its new Chairperson

Hili Ventures has appointed experienced business leader Archie Bethel CBE as its new Chairman.

Mr Bethel succeeds Steve Tarr who retired after a seven-year term on March 31. Mr Bethel will apply his broad experience in transforming and growing international businesses in a range of industry sectors to lead the board and set its agenda. He will guide directors to ensure optimal decision-making outcomes aligned with Hili Ventures’ values and core strengths.

In a career spanning more than four decades, Mr Bethel gained extensive international experience and has been responsible for acquiring, growing and operating major businesses around the world.

In 2021, after nearly 20 years with the company, Mr Bethel retired from his role as Chief Executive of Babcock International Group plc, a London-based FTSE listed public company operating globally in the defence, energy and aviation sectors. He continues to hold several non-executive and independent director roles in both the private and public sectors.

A Chartered Engineer, Mr Bethel began his career in the offshore oil and gas industry after graduating from the University of Strathclyde with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA. In 2009, the university awarded him an honorary Doctor of Science degree. He was awarded an OBE in 1996 and a CBE in 2008 for Services to Business and Enterprise in the United Kingdom.

“I am honoured to be joining the Hili Ventures group at this exciting stage of its development,” Mr Bethel said. “I look forward to working with Melo and the board to deliver our ambitious growth plans.”

Melo Hili, Chief Executive Officer of Hili Ventures, said: “The shareholders are delighted that Archie has accepted to chair the Hili Ventures group. His appointment comes at a critical moment for the business as it looks to upscale its international presence and expansion in key areas. We are confident Archie’s leadership and experience will inspire us to reach major objectives as we navigate the ever-changing world order.”

Effective April 1, 2022, the board of Hili Ventures is composed of Archie Bethel (Chairman), Melo Hili, Annabel Hili, Victor Tedesco and Jesmond Mizzi.