In a significant move for the City of London, the chairman of online grocery pioneer Ocado Group has been appointed to the board of a European software giant planning a blockbuster stock market debut.
Key Appointment for Landmark Flotation
Adam Warby is poised to become a non-executive director at Visma, the Norwegian accounting and business software provider. According to City sources, an official announcement confirming his appointment could be made as early as Friday. This strategic hire comes as Visma intensifies preparations for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange, slated for as soon as the first quarter of 2026.
Mr Warby will join a board that is being steered by incoming chairman Sir Ron Kalifa, a respected City figure. Their combined experience is seen as crucial for navigating what is expected to be one of London's largest and most closely-watched public listings in years.
A Multi-Billion Euro Boost for London
The planned flotation represents a major vote of confidence in London's financial markets, which have faced a series of high-profile defections to other exchanges. Visma's owners have chosen London over rival Euronext in Amsterdam, a decision that contrasts with recent moves by other issuers like CVC Capital Partners.
While the final valuation will hinge on market conditions, insiders suggest the IPO could value Visma at well over €20 billion. The company, which provides accounting, payroll, and HR software to more than one million small business customers, has seen rapid growth through both organic expansion and a series of acquisitions. It is backed by a syndicate including private equity firm Hg and several sovereign wealth funds.
Timing and Implications
No fixed date has been set for the share sale, but banking sources indicate a window at the end of the first quarter of 2026 is a strong possibility. The successful completion of such a large-scale listing would provide a substantial lift to the London Stock Exchange, reinforcing its status as a global hub for technology and software companies.
The recruitment of high-profile British business leaders like Adam Warby and Sir Ron Kalifa underscores the importance Visma places on its London future. For the City, securing this listing is a pivotal moment in its ongoing campaign to attract and retain world-class businesses.
