Iain McNeil OBE
Iain brings a rare blend of distinguished military leadership and high-impact corporate experience to his advisory roles across sectors. With a career spanning elite service in the British Army to C-suite operations in executive search and innovation-led businesses, he continues to drive strategic transformation at the highest levels.
Military Leadership & Service
Iain’s early career was shaped by his service in the Coldstream Guards, including two years at the Commando Training Centre with the Royal Marines. He commanded the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, serving during the First Gulf War, and was later promoted to Brigadier, commanding the 1st Brigade at Tidworth. As Director of Personal Services for the Army, he oversaw critical functions such as discipline, pay, welfare, and conditions of service. A member of the Honours and Awards Committee, Iain was awarded an Operational OBE for service in Northern Ireland.
Executive Search & Corporate Strategy
Following military service, Iain transitioned into executive recruitment, beginning as Director of Operations at NBS in London. He went on to serve as Chief of Staff at Odgers International, playing a central role in building the firm into the UK’s leading executive search business, with five regional offices and a global network. His leadership helped scale the company from 20 staff to a market leader in a decade, with a strategic focus on operations, talent, and growth initiatives.
As Chief of Staff at The Miles Partnership, Iain continued driving business expansion before entering management consulting and later joining Stonehaven International.
Current Roles & Board Leadership
Today, Iain serves as Chairman of two commercial start-ups, Director of Choix, and Principal Consultant at Norman Taylor SRA, where he advises on leadership, risk, and strategy across defence, sustainability, and innovation sectors.
Environmental Innovation
A committed environmental advocate, Iain is Chairman of Intelligent Renewables, a circular economy company that transforms non-recyclable plastics and tyres into energy and oil, and manages the recycling and resale of other waste materials including metal, wood, and paper. His leadership here reflects a deep commitment to solving real-world environmental challenges through scalable, sustainable solutions.
Summary
Iain’s career is a testament to the power of discipline, strategic thinking, and transformational leadership. Whether commanding on the battlefield or advising in the boardroom, he brings clarity, resolve, and innovation to every challenge he undertakes.