UBM chairman Helen Alexander passes away

UBM chairman Dame Helen Alexander died over the weekend, having taken a leave of absence for medical treatment only last month.

Alexander, who was former chief executive of The Economist and first female president Confederation of British Industry, was 60 when she died.

She had held numerous boardroom roles in a diverse portfolio career, including Rolls-Royce, Centrica and the UK arm of Huawei.

Acting chairman, Greg Lock, who took over when Alexander took leave on 21 July, said: “The thoughts of everyone at UBM are with Helen’s family and friends, and we extend our deepest sympathies to them.

"In her role as Chairman, Helen has demonstrated exceptional leadership and was critical to the successful re-creation of UBM as a leading events business over the past four years.”

“In an extraordinarily successful and diverse career, Dame Helen has been a leading figure in the international business, media and education communities as well as being at the forefront of the rightful promotion of the skills and capabilities of women in business. All this and more she achieved with a gentle humility and fundamental kindness.”

“We would like to salute a remarkable career and a wonderful person.”

Paul Drechsler, current president of the CBI, said she was a "brilliant leader" and "determined in making the case for diversity" during her tenure in the role between 2009 and 2011.

He said: "More than that, people will remember Helen for being a great listener with a thoughtful sense of humour. She will be greatly missed by me and by everyone who knew her, both in the UK and beyond."