Business Chief from Chingford Falls to Death on Polish Ski Trip
Tragic Ski Fall Claims Life of International CEO
Stephen John McBride, 40, a top international businessman from Chingford, died after falling from a height during a corporate ski trip in Poland. The incident happened on 25 October 2024 while he was on a team-building break organised by his company, Discover International.
Mr McBride, who lived on Woodbury Way, leaves behind a wife and three children. He was the joint CEO of the global recruitment giant, which operates in major cities including London, Krakow, Mexico City, Barbados, Miami, and Denver. His firm focused on recruitment for the life sciences sector, where he had been a director since 2013.
Inquest Reveals No Foul Play in Fatal Fall
At an inquest on 11 April 2025, Senior Coroner Graeme Irvine told East London Coroner’s Court in Walthamstow that Mr McBride’s death followed a fall in the Polish resort town of Białka Tatrzańska.
The coroner confirmed there was no evidence suggesting Mr McBride intended to harm himself. He stated:
“There does not appear to be any evidence before me that Mr McBride’s actions were a deliberate act to end his life or cause himself harm.”
A post-mortem on 19 November confirmed death was caused by multiple traumatic injuries consistent with a fall.
UK Authorities Seek Full Details from Poland
Coroner Irvine revealed he would ask the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to liaise with Polish authorities. This is to gather vital police, pathology, and medical reports from the investigation abroad.
“I will impose upon the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to acquire for me any details of any police investigation in Poland, any details of any pathological investigation in Poland, and any medical investigation in Poland,” he said.
Since English coroners lack jurisdiction in Poland, they depend on voluntary cooperation from foreign officials to uncover the full story.
Family Granted Right to Access Evidence Ahead of Full Inquest
Mr McBride’s family has been given “interested person” status, allowing them to review all evidence and question witnesses. A full inquest is scheduled for 9 October 2025.
The business world mourns the loss of a dynamic leader known for driving innovation in life sciences globally.
