Howard Covington
Howard Covington is a distinguished British investment banker known for his significant contributions to the financial and academic sectors. He was a founding shareholder and director of New Star Asset Management and has held prominent positions at prestigious institutions such as the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences and The Alan Turing Institute.
Early Career
Before embarking on his notable journey in asset management, Covington's professional career began in the financial industry. His expertise in finance and investment played a critical role in the establishment and growth of companies such as New Star Asset Management, which he helped transform from a start-up into a thriving enterprise with over £20 billion under management and 400 employees.
New Star Asset Management
Howard Covington joined New Star Asset Management in 2000 as a founder shareholder and director. By 2001, he became the chief executive, steering the company through its formative years to become a profitable mainstream asset manager. This was a period marked by strategic expansion and innovation in asset management, positioning New Star as a significant player in the industry.
Academic Contributions
Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences
Covington's influence extends beyond finance into the realm of academia. He served as the first non-academic chairman of the management committee for the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences, a prestigious research center in the field of mathematical sciences. This position underscores his commitment to fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
The Alan Turing Institute
From 2015 to 2022, Covington was the inaugural chairman of The Alan Turing Institute, the United Kingdom's national research institute for data science and artificial intelligence. The institute was a joint venture among several renowned institutions, including the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the universities of Cambridge, Edinburgh, Oxford, University College London, and Warwick.
Legacy
Howard Covington's career exemplifies the bridge between the financial sector and academic research. His leadership in both domains has not only advanced individual organizations but has also contributed to the broader landscape of investment and scientific inquiry.