Gary Lubner is a South African-born British businessman and philanthropist who served as the Chief Executive Officer of Belron, the world’s leading vehicle glass repair and replacement group, from 2000 to 2023. During his tenure, he transformed the company into a multi-billion euro global enterprise operating in 38 countries with brands like Autoglass, Safelite, and Carglass. In recent years, Lubner has gained significant prominence as one of the largest individual donors to the UK Labour Party, contributing over £5 million to support the party’s modernization and electoral campaigns. This article provides an in-depth look at his early life in apartheid-era South Africa, his record-breaking corporate career, his extensive charitable foundations, and his influential role in British politics today.
Early Life and South African Roots
Gary Lubner was born in 1959 in Johannesburg, South Africa, into a prominent Jewish family with a history in the glass industry. His grandparents were refugees from Eastern Europe who arrived in South Africa with few resources, eventually founding the PG Group, which became a leading glass manufacturer.
Growing up in a liberal household during the apartheid era, Lubner was deeply influenced by his family’s commitment to social justice. Despite his family’s business ties to the establishment, he became an active opponent of the regime, eventually co-founding “Jews for Social Justice” while studying at the University of Cape Town.
Anti-Apartheid Activism and Conscription
During his youth, Lubner was conscripted into the South African police force, a mandatory requirement that significantly solidified his opposition to the state’s racist policies. He used his position to subtly resist the system, including warning community members of upcoming raids and falsifying reports to protect Black South Africans from state violence.
He also developed a personal connection to the anti-apartheid struggle through his family’s support for Nelson Mandela. Lubner eventually joined the board of the Nelson Mandela Legacy Trust, a position he continues to hold, reflecting a lifelong dedication to the principles of equality and human rights forged in his early years.
Education and Academic Background
Lubner pursued his higher education in finance and accountancy at the University of Cape Town (UCT), where he qualified as a Chartered Accountant. His time at UCT was marked by both academic excellence and increasing political involvement in the student-led anti-apartheid movements of the 1980s.
Following his undergraduate studies, he moved to the United Kingdom to attend London Business School (LBS), where he earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA). This international education provided the strategic foundation for his future role as a global CEO and later led him to fund the Gary Lubner Scholarship at LBS to support talented African students.
Career Beginnings at Arthur Andersen
Before joining the family business, Lubner began his professional career in the audit division of Arthur Andersen, then one of the “Big Five” global accounting firms. He worked as a Chartered Accountant, gaining critical experience in corporate finance and international business standards.
This early professional phase allowed him to develop a disciplined approach to financial management and organizational structure. It also provided a perspective on global markets that would be instrumental when he eventually transitioned into the leadership of the PG Group’s international interests.
Rising Through the PG Group
Lubner eventually joined the PG Group, the South African glass giant built by his father, Ronnie, and his uncle, Bertie. He served in several key roles, including Finance Manager of the Contracting Division and Managing Director of PG Masterfit, where he learned the operational side of the glass repair industry.
In 1991, he moved to London to support the group’s European expansion. This period was pivotal, as it marked the transition of the company from a South African-centric business to a truly international competitor, eventually evolving into the entity known as Belron.
Transformation of Belron Global
In 2000, Gary Lubner was appointed CEO of Belron, the parent company of household brands like Autoglass (UK) and Safelite (USA). Over the next 23 years, he led the company through a period of massive international growth, increasing annual sales sevenfold to approximately €6 billion.
Under his leadership, Belron focused on a “repair-first” strategy and invested heavily in proprietary technology and brand recognition. By the time he stepped down in 2023, the company was valued at over €21 billion, employing more than 30,000 people across six continents.
Implementing Employee Share Schemes
One of the most notable acts of Lubner’s corporate career occurred in 2021 when he implemented a massive employee share distribution. Following a successful valuation of the company, he oversaw the allocation of €300 million to be shared among 30,000 employees worldwide.
Each eligible employee, regardless of their position, received approximately €10,000 in a combination of cash and shares. This move was widely hailed as one of the largest and most egalitarian share distributions in corporate history, reflecting Lubner’s belief that business success should be shared with the workforce that creates it.
Political Involvement in the UK
Gary Lubner emerged as a major figure in British politics following the 2019 General Election, primarily driven by his disillusionment with Brexit and the rise of antisemitism within political ranks. He became “disenchanted” with the Conservative government’s direction and sought a progressive alternative that aligned with his values.
In 2021, after meeting with Rachel Reeves, the Shadow Chancellor, he decided to throw his full weight behind the Labour Party. His support was motivated by a desire to see a more “just and egalitarian” British society and his confidence in Keir Starmer’s leadership to reform the party.
Major Donations to the Labour Party
Since 2022, Lubner has become one of the Labour Party’s most significant individual financial backers, with total donations exceeding £5 million. His contributions have funded critical party infrastructure, including staff for shadow cabinet members and general election preparations.
According to public records, his donations have also extended to the Co-operative Party, which operates in partnership with Labour. He has stated that his financial support is “long-term,” aimed at ensuring the party remains in power to deliver systemic change over multiple terms.
Addressing Antisemitism in Politics
A major catalyst for Lubner’s political giving was his concern over antisemitism in the Labour Party under previous leadership. He publicly praised Keir Starmer for his efforts to “tear out the cancer” of antisemitism and restore the party’s reputation as a safe space for the Jewish community.
As a member of the Alyth Synagogue in London, Lubner has been vocal about his Jewish identity and the values of tzedakah (charity) that drive his actions. He has also donated libel damages from disputes with fringe political websites to organizations like the Community Security Trust, which protects the British Jewish community.
Founding the This Day Foundation
In 2023, following his retirement from Belron, Lubner founded the This Day Foundation to consolidate his philanthropic efforts. The foundation is dedicated to creating a “fairer future” by focusing on early childhood development and youth unemployment.
The foundation operates primarily in South Africa and the United Kingdom, with approximately 70% of its funding directed toward South African initiatives. This Day also supports refugee and asylum causes in the UK, reflecting Lubner’s own family history as refugees seeking safety and opportunity.
Partnership with Nelson Mandela
Lubner’s philanthropic work is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Nelson Mandela, whom he considers a personal hero. He has served as a trustee of the Nelson Mandela Legacy Trust (UK) since 2004, working to promote social justice and human rights.
He often recalls taking his children to meet Mandela, noting how the late president’s love for children and vision for a “Rainbow Nation” shaped his own philanthropic philosophy. This relationship continues to guide the initiatives supported by the Lubner family today.
The Spirit of Belron Challenge
In 2001, Lubner launched the “Spirit of Belron Challenge,” a sporting fundraiser that has become a hallmark of the company’s corporate social responsibility. The event typically involves a triathlon or other physical challenges undertaken by employees across the globe.
Since its inception, the challenge has raised tens of millions of euros for Afrika Tikkun, a charity that provides health and education services to disadvantaged children in South Africa. Lubner has personally participated in the triathlon every year, demonstrating a “lead-by-example” approach to corporate giving.
Minority Stake in Brentford FC
In July 2025, Lubner expanded his interests into the world of sport by becoming a minority shareholder in Brentford Football Club. He invested alongside filmmaker Sir Matthew Vaughn into the club’s holding company, Best Intentions Analytics.
A primary motivator for this investment was the work of the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust. Lubner has cited the power of football to unite communities, a belief stemming from his childhood in South Africa where sport was one of the few avenues for social integration during apartheid.
Philanthropy in South Africa
Despite living in London for over three decades, Lubner maintains strong ties to South Africa and directs a vast majority of his wealth back to his home country. His work with Afrika Tikkun utilizes a “Cradle-to-Career” model to support vulnerable youth in townships.
His philanthropy also includes the Gary Lubner Scholarship, which focuses on providing world-class business education to African students at London Business School. He believes that fostering strong, ethical leadership is the key to solving the systemic challenges facing the African continent.
Humanitarian Aid and Global Causes
Lubner’s charitable reach extends beyond political and educational causes to include humanitarian aid in crisis zones. He has made significant contributions to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and has supported families affected by the October 7 attacks in Israel.
Additionally, he works with the One to One Children’s Fund, which pioneers grassroots healthcare models for children affected by HIV/AIDS and trauma. This global perspective reflects his view that businesses and wealthy individuals have a “deep obligation” to the international community.
Practical Information and Planning
How to Engage with This Day Foundation
The This Day Foundation is Lubner’s primary vehicle for new philanthropic initiatives. Organizations focused on youth unemployment or early childhood development can monitor the foundation’s official website for grant opportunities and partnership announcements.
Accessing the Gary Lubner Scholarship
Prospective students from Africa applying to the London Business School MBA program are eligible for the Gary Lubner Scholarship.
- Where to apply: Through the LBS admissions portal.
- Criteria: Demonstrated financial need, academic excellence, and a commitment to returning to Africa to contribute to the continent’s development.
- What to expect: A significant reduction or full waiver of tuition fees.
Participating in the Spirit of Belron
While primarily an internal corporate event for Belron employees, the Spirit of Belron Challenge often welcomes partner organizations and sponsors.
- Dates: Typically held annually in the third quarter.
- Impact: Proceeds benefit Afrika Tikkun’s township programs.
Visiting Brentford FC Community Projects
For those interested in the community-focused side of Lubner’s sports investment, the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust offers various public programs.
- Location: Gtech Community Stadium and surrounding hubs in West London.
- Activities: Youth coaching, educational workshops, and social inclusion projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Gary Lubner make his money?
Gary Lubner accumulated his wealth primarily through his 23-year tenure as the CEO of Belron, the world’s largest vehicle glass repair company. Under his leadership, the company grew into a multi-billion euro global leader with brands like Autoglass and Safelite.
How much has Gary Lubner donated to the Labour Party?
Public records and reports indicate that Gary Lubner has donated over £5 million to the UK Labour Party since 2022. His donations are intended to support the party’s long-term infrastructure and its goal of creating a more equitable society.
Why did Gary Lubner leave South Africa?
Lubner moved to London in the late 1980s to pursue an MBA at London Business School. He ultimately stayed in the UK to help manage and expand the international divisions of his family’s glass business, which eventually became Belron.
Is Gary Lubner still the CEO of Belron?
No, Gary Lubner stepped down as CEO of Belron in early 2023. He remains involved with the company as a member of the Board of Directors but now focuses the majority of his time on philanthropy and political engagement.
What is the This Day Foundation?
Founded by Gary Lubner in 2023, the This Day Foundation is a charitable organization that funds initiatives for early childhood development, youth unemployment, and refugee support in both South Africa and the United Kingdom.
What is Gary Lubner’s connection to Nelson Mandela?
Lubner grew up in a family that supported the anti-apartheid movement and later became a personal acquaintance of Nelson Mandela. He has served on the board of the Nelson Mandela Legacy Trust for decades, continuing Mandela’s work in social justice.
Does Gary Lubner own a football club?
As of July 2025, Gary Lubner is a minority shareholder in Brentford Football Club. He invested in the club alongside filmmaker Matthew Vaughn, motivated largely by the club’s extensive community and social impact work.
What is the Gary Lubner Scholarship?
It is a scholarship program funded by Lubner at London Business School. It is designed to provide full or partial tuition support for African students who wish to pursue an MBA and then apply those skills to development projects on the African continent.
Final Thoughts
Gary Lubner’s trajectory from a conscript in apartheid-era South Africa to a titan of British industry and politics is defined by a consistent philosophy of “giving back.” His leadership at Belron was marked by a shift from simple corporate growth to a model of stakeholder capitalism, exemplified by his landmark €300 million employee wealth distribution. Today, having stepped away from the boardroom, Lubner has pivoted his focus toward systemic reform, utilizing his personal wealth to stabilize the UK’s political landscape and fund grassroots social mobility projects through the This Day Foundation.
As he continues into 2026, Lubner’s influence is felt most keenly in his strategic support for Keir Starmer’s government and his local community investments in West London through Brentford FC. By bridging the gap between high-level political finance and hands-on community philanthropy, Lubner has positioned himself as a central figure in the UK’s “impact economy.” His life’s work serves as a case study in how private success can be leveraged for public benefit, proving that the most enduring corporate legacy is not just market dominance, but the empowerment of future generations.
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