Jim O’Neill

Jim O’Neill is a renowned economist, policy adviser, author, and keynote speaker known globally for his expertise in finance, economics, and emerging markets. He is best known for coining the acronym “BRIC” in 2001, highlighting the economic rise of Brazil, Russia, India, and China. He also served as Chairman of Chatham House until July 2021 and regularly speaks at international events on global economic trends and financial transformation.

Jim served as the UK’s Commercial Secretary to the Treasury from 2015 to 2016 and chaired the Review into Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), contributing to major global policy discussions at the United Nations. Before this, he led the Cities Growth Commission, helping shape the UK government’s devolution policies and the Northern Powerhouse initiative. Through his research, books, and BBC documentary series MINT: The Next Economic Giants , Jim has become one of the world’s leading voices on emerging economies and international finance.

Beyond economics and policy, Jim has contributed extensively to education, philanthropy, and global organizations. He is a founding trustee and lifetime President of the UK educational charity SHINE and has served on the boards of multiple international organizations and think tanks. He was also a non-executive director of Manchester United before the club returned to private ownership in 2005. Currently, he serves as the Honorary Chair of Economics at University of Manchester.