Dean Forbes, the chief executive of software solutions firm Forterro, has been named the UK’s most influential black person by The Powerlist 2025.
The tech business leader is joined in the top ten by Bernard Mensah, president of international at Bank of America, and Afua Kyei, the chief financial officer at the Bank of England.
The Powerlist, in partnership with JP Morgan, recognises the UK’s most powerful people of African, African Caribbean and African American heritage and has previously been topped by former editor-in-chief of British Vogue, Edward Enninful, seven-time Formula One world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton and former Children’s Laureate Malorie Blackman.
Also in the top 10 is Emma Grede, a founding partner in Kim Kardashian’s Skims clothing range, and Adejoke Bakare, the UK’s first black, female chef to earn a Michelin star.
The Powerlist was launched in 2005 as a way to showcase black role models to inspire young people.
Dean Forbes said: “To be named number one on the Powerlist is an incredible honour.
“My journey, from growing up in south-east London to leading global businesses, has shown me the power of resilience, the importance of community, and seizing every opportunity.
“I hope my story can inspire others from similar backgrounds to believe in their potential and work hard to achieve their dreams.
“My journey was shaped by those who believed in me and opened doors, and now I’m determined to pay it forward.
“I want to provide opportunities for young people who, like me, need that extra support to achieve their potential. This mission is deeply personal to me.”
What really stood out, beyond Dean’s impeccable track record in business, is how he’s used his skills to truly give back, particularly by supporting community charities through his Forbes Family Group Foundation
Michael Eboda, chief executive of Powerful Media
Michael Eboda, chief executive of Powerful Media, the publisher of the Powerlist, said: “What really stood out, beyond Dean’s impeccable track record in business, is how he’s used his skills to truly give back, particularly by supporting community charities through his Forbes Family Group Foundation.
“The judges felt that, more than anyone, Dean had gone above and beyond in this area. He’s unique and truly deserves to be our number one.
“It’s an honour to celebrate Dean and all of our incredible Powerlistees this year.”
The full Powerlist 2025 top 10 is:
1. Dean Forbes – Chief executive officer, Forterro, Partner Corten Capital, Chair Forbes Family Group
2. Bernard Mensah – President of international, Bank of America; Chief executive officer, MLI
3. Afua Kyei – Chief financial officer, Bank of England
4. Emma Grede – Chief executive officer and Co-Founder, Good American; Founding Partner, Skims
5. Joshua Siaw, MBE – Partner, White & Case
6. Tunde Olanrewaju – Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company
7. Alexander and Oliver Kent-Braham – Founders, Marshmallow
8. Adejoke Bakaré – Chef-owner, Chishuru, Michelin-starred restaurant
9. Justin Onuekwusi – Chief investment officer, St James’s Place
10. Pamela Maynard – Chief AI transformation officer, Microsoft