Dharmesh Mistry, a seasoned venture capitalist renowned for his expertise in technology and finance, has been selected to join the esteemed board of the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the capacity of a non-executive director. Alongside him, Cyrus Mehta, with a distinguished background as the former head of the European Union (EU) and competition team at a prominent London law firm CMS, assumes the role of a Panel Member within the CMA.
This significant development underscores the CMA's commitment to diversity and inclusivity, as it embraces individuals of Indian origin to occupy pivotal positions within the regulatory body. The appointments, as reported by PTI, mark a strategic move by the British government's Department for Business and Trade (DBT) to infuse the CMA with a wealth of experience and expertise in the realms of finance, law, and regulatory affairs.
Marcus Bokkerink, Chair of the CMA, lauded the new appointments, citing their potential to bring fresh perspectives and invaluable insights to the table, particularly during a period of expanding responsibilities and growing influence on the nation's business landscape. Emphasizing the paramount importance of fostering fair competition, driving business innovation, and nurturing sustainable economic growth, Bokkerink highlighted the pivotal role that Mistry, Mehta, and their counterparts are poised to play in steering the CMA towards its objectives.
Dharmesh Mistry's illustrious career trajectory, marked by his stewardship on various executive and non-executive boards, including notable roles within the Premier League and the Football Association, underscores his aptitude for strategic governance and industry leadership. His tenure as a non-executive director at esteemed institutions such as the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and British Business Bank further attests to his acumen and leadership prowess.
On the other hand, Cyrus Mehta brings to the table over three decades of extensive experience in competition law, consumer law, and trade regulation, garnered through his illustrious career trajectory. His tenure as the head of the EU and competition team at CMS, a premier law firm in London, underscores his deep understanding of regulatory frameworks and his ability to navigate complex legal landscapes with finesse.
As non-executive directors, Mistry and his peers are entrusted with the critical task of steering the strategic direction of the CMA, overseeing its performance, and making pivotal decisions that uphold the principles of fair competition and consumer protection. Their induction into the CMA's governance structure comes at a pivotal juncture when the regulatory body's role in safeguarding healthy competition and driving economic prosperity in the UK economy is of paramount importance.
In addition to Mistry and Mehta, the CMA board welcomes the esteemed broadcaster Dame Patricia Hodgson, as well as entrepreneurs Justin Basini and Frank Dangeard, as part of the new appointees. Together, this diverse cohort is poised to reinforce the CMA's commitment to excellence and effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate in the dynamic landscape of the UK's business environment.
