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Irvine LaidlawScottish entrepreneur
Date of Birth: 12.12.1942
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Sir Ian Laidlaw: Scottish Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
- Institute for International Research
- Abbey Business Centres
- Political Involvement
- Exit from the House of Lords
- Philanthropic Endeavors
- Laidlaw Youth Trust
- Global Philanthropy
- Personal Life
Sir Ian Laidlaw: Scottish Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
Early Life and EducationBorn in Keith, Banffshire, Scotland, Ian Laidlaw pursued his studies at Leeds University and Columbia Business School in New York. His early entrepreneurial ventures began with the acquisition of a small American publishing company in 1973.
Institute for International Research
Laidlaw transformed the publishing company into the Institute for International Research (IIR), which became the world's leading conference organizer. In 2005, he sold IIR for an estimated £768 million.
Abbey Business Centres
In 1988, Laidlaw established Abbey Business Centres, a subsidiary of IIR specializing in serviced offices, conference facilities, and virtual offices. The company operated 13 business centers across the UK.
Political Involvement
Known for his significant support of the British Conservative Party, Laidlaw was granted a life peerage as Baron Laidlaw of Rothiemay in June 2004. He contributed nearly £3 million to the Conservative Party coffers.
Exit from the House of Lords
Laidlaw's refusal to relinquish his non-domiciled tax status despite his elevation to the House of Lords drew criticism. In 2010, legislative reforms forced him to leave the House of Lords.
Philanthropic Endeavors
Laidlaw pledged to donate a large portion of his wealth to Scottish causes over the next 20-30 years. The Laidlaw Youth Project became a major vehicle for his philanthropy, along with donations to his former school and other organizations.
Laidlaw Youth Trust
In 2007, Laidlaw launched the Laidlaw Youth Trust, which disbursed over £6 million within two years to support disadvantaged children and youth.
Global Philanthropy
Laidlaw shifted his focus to South Africa in 2009. His involvement in a construction project there highlights his extensive philanthropic activities beyond the UK.
Personal Life
Laidlaw is an avid vintage car enthusiast with an impressive collection, including a Bugatti Veyron. In 2008, he revealed his past struggles with sexual addiction and sought treatment for the condition.
