Mike Wilson, Managing Partner at leading UK law firm Blake Morgan LLP, has been appointed Chair of the CBI’s South-East Council.

A longstanding member of the council, Mike brings deep regional insight and leadership experience to the role. He joined Blake Morgan in 2012 and was elected Managing Partner in 2016. Since then, he has overseen the firm’s strategic growth and development, working closely with the firms’ strategy and operations boards to ensure the business remains values-driven and regionally invested.

Mike is known for championing an inclusive, people-first culture. Under his leadership, Blake Morgan has undergone significant cultural transformation, offering colleagues meaningful career opportunities and maintaining retention rates well above the industry average. His strategic restructuring of the firm has also delivered strong returns for stakeholders.

As Chair, Mike will play a key role in representing South-East businesses and helping shape the CBI’s regional agenda.

Anneka Hendrick, CBI London and South-East Director, said:

“I’m delighted to welcome Mike as Chair-Elect of the CBI South-East Council. A valued CBI Councillor for many years, Mike brings more than three decades of experience as a law firm leader, and latterly as Managing Partner of Blake Morgan."

“His boardroom expertise, extensive networks across the South-East and beyond, and commitment to inclusive growth give him a deep understanding of the region’s business landscape. Combined with his strong support for the CBI’s mission, these qualities make him an outstanding choice to champion the voice of South-East businesses."

“We look forward to working with him to drive forward the priorities of our members and the wider business community.”

New CBI South-East Council Chair, Mike Wilson, said:

“It is an immense privilege to be appointed as Chair of the CBI’s South-East Council. I have been a member of the CBI Council for several years and have seen how impactful the organisation can be as a collective voice for businesses across the UK, especially in London and the South-East, which together cover over 35% of the UK's registered firms."

“Given the challenges faced by many businesses and organisations in recent times, the need to drive sustainable growth through investment across all sectors throughout the UK is paramount. We need a vibrant, modern economy. It is more important now than ever that the CBI continues to advocate for businesses in a practical, optimistic way."

“I look forward to working closely with the CBI Council and my colleagues across London and the South-East to achieve this, ensuring that we take advantage of the opportunities available to us through the impressive CBI network.”