Michael Craig Stoddart (LI 1945-50) passed away peacefully at the age of 93, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in British business and a lifelong impact on countless colleagues, friends and family members.  

While at Marlborough, Michael began thinking seriously about his future and initially set his sights on becoming a chartered accountant. After discovering that accountancy was not the right path for him, he found his true calling in merchant banking, a world he later described as both ‘interesting and fun’. It was there that his natural entrepreneurial flair, sharp intellect and exceptional ability to connect people truly flourished.  

Michael became one of the pioneering figures of British private equity, founding and leading Electra Investment Trust, helping to shape an industry that would transform the business landscape. Colleagues affectionately described him as the ‘ultimate networker’, someone with a unique gift for bringing people together and creating opportunities wherever he went. Alongside his work at Electra, he served as chairman or director of numerous public companies, including household names such as Next and Goldcrest Films, the production company behind acclaimed films including Chariots of Fire, Gandhi and The Killing Fields.  

His influence extended far beyond the boardroom. Even after retiring from Electra in 2000, Michael continued to advise businesses through his work with Stonehage Fleming and devoted much of his time to supporting the theatre world and numerous charitable causes. He will be remembered with great affection for his wide-ranging contributions, generous support of others and enduring commitment to the communities of which he was a part.