Grant Thornton partner Neil Barrell joins GFG Alliance

London-based industrials and energy group the GFG Alliance has made a key international executive appointment to strengthen its manufacturing activities worldwide. Neil Barrell arrives at the firm having most recently led Grant Thornton’s operational consulting practice.

The GFG Alliance is a London-headquartered global business, founded and owned by Sanjeev Gupta, with annual revenue of over US$15 billion and around 15,000 staff. The firm combines energy generation, metal manufacturing, engineering, natural resources and financial services, working together to deliver a common business strategy.

As the firm looks to boost its executive team in 2019, GFG has recruited Neil Barrell, a Senior Partner of Grant Thornton, as its global head of integration and performance. Barrell takes up his remit to optimise GFG’s growing network of manufacturing operations as of July 1st. The new member of GFG brings with him many years’ senior management experience – including nine years at CEO level – leading businesses in steel, aluminium and the automotive sector. During that time, he has spearheaded a number of business acquisitions and turnarounds, distinguishing himself in strategic, operational and commercial roles.

As well as leading Grant Thornton’s operational consulting practise, Barrell was Grant Thornton’s head of UK manufacturing and industrials sector and the firm’s global automotive leader. During this time, he became a trusted advisor to high-profile businesses and institutions including Fortune 500, FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 companies, UK Government, financial institutions, private equity clients and large privately-owned entrepreneurial businesses, including the GFG Alliance.

Commenting on his appointment, Barrell said, “This is an exciting opportunity to get the very best performance from the many quality manufacturing assets in my focus sectors that GFG has acquired over recent years. GFG has a clear vision for growth, innovation and sustainability, and I’m looking forward to being part of driving efficiency across the group.”

Sanjeev Gupta meanwhile remarked, “Neil’s track record speaks for itself. As GFG enters a strategically important period, during which we will be integrating our global manufacturing activities and expanding the footprint of our key business pillars, his talent, experience and in-depth knowledge of many of our assets, will be invaluable in giving us a critical competitive edge.”