After qualifying as an accountant Mr Peter Rigby joined Metal Box. In 1981 he moved into the media industry joining Book Club Associates, a joint venture between WH Smith and Doubleday. In 1983 he joined Stonehart Publications which was acquired by International Business Communications (later renamed IBC) in 1986. After two years as Finance Director of IBC, Mr Rigby was appointed Deputy Chief Executive and later its Chief Executive, leading IBC's expansion into North America, Asia and Australia.

He became Chairman of Informa Group plc at the company's inception upon the merger of IBC and LLP in 1998.

Mr Rigby was appointed Chief Executive upon the merger of Informa with Taylor & Francis in May 2004. He is also Non-Executive Chairman of Electric Word plc.