3i Group plc announces that Julia Wilson, the Group’s Deputy Finance Director will join the Board on 1 October 2008 as Finance Director Designate.

She will succeed Simon Ball who has decided to resign as Finance Director, and he steps down from the Board with effect from 30 November 2008. 

Julia Wilson joined 3i in January 2006 as Deputy Finance Director, with responsibility for the Group’s finance, taxation and treasury functions. She was previously Group Director of Corporate Finance at Cable & Wireless plc which she joined in 2000.

Commenting, Simon Ball said:

“I am very proud of what we have achieved at 3i over the last four years and the time is now right for me to take on some new challenges. I’m delighted for Julia and wish both her and 3i every success for the future.”

Baroness Hogg, 3i Chairman said:

“I am delighted that Julia is joining the board. She makes an excellent successor to Simon who has served the company well.”

Philip Yea, 3i’s Chief Executive, added:

“Simon has made a significant contribution to the reshaping of 3i. I am sorry to see him leave but understand his decision to seek new challenges, and would like to take this opportunity to thank Simon and wish him continued success in the future.”

3i also announces two further appointments to its Management Committee to support its continued international development.

Bob Stefanowski is appointed Managing Partner and Chairman, 3i North America, effective 15 September 2008.  He joins after 14 years with General Electric, where he was elected a company officer in April 2006.  His most recent role was President and Chief Executive Officer of GE Corporate Finance, Europe, with overall responsibility for M&A, structured finance and other capital market activities.

Bruno Deschamps, currently Group Partner, responsible for 3i in France, will join the Management Committee as Managing Partner, Group Markets, effective 1 October 2008. He will have specific responsibility for 3i''s geographic network across Continental Europe and a number of Group functions including Marketing and Business Leaders Network. He will retain his direct responsibilities for 3i France.

Commenting on these appointments, Philip Yea said:

“The changes announced today demonstrate our continued ambition to grow our business internationally.”

There are no other matters to disclose in accordance with paragraph 9.6.13R of the FSA''s Listing Rules in connection with the appointment of Julia Wilson.

For further information please contact:

Rachel Richards
email. rachel.richards@3i.com
tel.  +44 207 975 3573