Dragon joins Big Issue board

01/12/2009

James Caan will help guide The Big Issue into new digital age

Dragons Den star James Caan has joined The Big Issue Company Ltd as chairman. The entrepreneur, a graduate of Harvard Business School who is CEO of private equity firm Hamilton Bradshaw and an active philanthropist, will help to guide the magazine through the tough economic climate as it moves into the digital age, helping to identify new revenue streams.

Commenting on his new role, Caan said: “The Big Issue embodies my firm belief that we all need a helping hand sometimes. I identify with building something from nothing and the organisations principle of giving a hand up, rather than a hand out, resonates with me on many levels. What’s most remarkable about The Big Issue is its ability to work with homeless people without their dignity being sacrificed.

“All around the world there are homeless people who want to better themselves – they want the chance to build something for the future. Working on a self-employed basis and taking control of your earnings allows people to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness. It doesn't matter what language you speak or what culture you're from – a desire to earn a legitimate living and integrate back into mainstream society is something that is universally felt.”

Currently the magazine sells over 147,000 copies a week and last year put over £8 million into the pockets of vendors.

Speaking about Caan’s appointment John Bird, The Big Issue’s founder and editor-in-chief said: “James is one of UK business’ leading lights so I have no doubt that he’ll be a fantastic addition to our board. Eighteen years since I launched The Big Issue it remains a ground-breaking initiative and unique business proposition so we hope James will find working with us challenging, exciting and enlightening.”