The end of the Ice Maiden’s era

Carol Galley, London’s most famous fund manager, is leaving her job at Merrill Lynch Investment Managers after more than 30 years in the business.

Galley, who was dubbed the Ice Maiden after she made the casting vote against Sir Rocco Forte in favour of Granada’s hostile takeover of his company in 1996, confessed to feeling emotional upon announcing her decision.

Somewhat hidden in her formidable shadow, Stephen Zimmerman, who was co-chief operating officer with Galley, is also leaving.