Early Life and Education
Ian Livingstone was born in Prestbury, England, in December 1949. He attended Altrincham Grammar School and later studied Optometry at City University London, qualifying as an optometrist in 1984.
Rise to Success
Livingstone's career is marked by significant achievements in the gaming and real estate industries. In 1975, he co-founded Games Workshop with Steve Jackson and John Peake, which started as a mail-order company and grew into a leading gaming manufacturer. In 1982, Livingstone co-created the Fighting Fantasy gamebook series with Steve Jackson, a highly successful series that has sold millions of copies worldwide. He later entered the video game industry, co-founding Eidos Interactive, where he helped secure major franchises like Tomb Raider and Hitman. Livingstone co-founded London & Regional Properties in 1987 with his brother Richard. They built a substantial real estate portfolio in the UK and internationally.
Key Business Strategies
Key strategies include identifying and acquiring undervalued assets, particularly in the real estate sector, as well as diversifying investments. Livingstone demonstrated an ability to adapt to market changes and leverage opportunities for growth, for example, his stake in Evolution Gaming. He has also shown a commitment to education, supporting the introduction of the Computing curriculum in schools.
Philanthropy
Livingstone is involved in philanthropy through The Ian & Natalie Livingstone Charitable Trust, which supports children's and other disadvantaged groups. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of The Mayor's Fund for London.