Ian Thomas Tops UK Powerlist as Most Influential Black Briton, Including Idris Elba
Ian Thomas, the first Black chief executive of the City of London Corporation in its over 900-year history, has been named the United Kingdom's most influential Black person, according to PA Media. He secured the top position on the 2027 Powerlist, an annual publication by Powerful Media that recognizes influential individuals of African, African Caribbean, and African American heritage across various sectors. The 57-year-old public service leader was born in Sheffield to Jamaican parents who were part of the Windrush generation. His career in public service spans more than three decades, including roles as chief executive of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames and overseeing children and young people’s services in Rotherham. Thomas was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2019 for his contributions to children's services. The Powerlist also recognized other prominent figures, including actor Idris Elba and entrepreneur Steven Bartlett.
