Barrie, a British entrepreneur and philanthropist from Liverpool, now lives in Lancaster. He is the grandson of Latimer Stones, a former World Pole-Vault record holder and US Champion.
His notable accolades include an MBE from the Queen in 2020, a Points of Light Award from the Prime Minister in 2016, and an Honorary Doctorate. He served as a Non-Executive Director for 10 years at Marks & Spencer and sat on various boards, including AXA Insurance. He is also a Patron of Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.
In the 1970s, Barrie won a scholarship to study insurance in the US, conducting research at the home offices of 30 major insurance companies.
His career highlights in insurance and philanthropy include:
* Pioneering the first direct motor insurance operation in Asia while in Singapore.
* Establishing the UK's first motor insurer to consider lifestyle factors in pricing, later acquired by AXA and rebranded as AXA Direct.
* Creating the UK's first direct commercial lines insurer, later selling his majority share to Allianz.
* Founding and funding the Barrie Wells Trust, which sponsors over 20 Olympic and World Championship medal-winning athletes across various sports. This led to initiatives like Athletes4Schools and Box4Kids, benefiting thousands of children.
Barrie is a renowned speaker on 'Creative & Disruptive Entrepreneurship & Philanthropy' at global events and universities. His presentations inspire hundreds to contribute to his philanthropic model, emphasizing the joy derived from giving, prompting his decision to donate his wealth during his lifetime.