The Companies Act 2006 defines a director as 'any person occupying the position of director by whatever name called'. The definition is intended to catch not only those validly appointed as directors, but also individuals who, although not formally appointed as such, to all intents and purposes carry on the role of a director within the company – de facto directors. Being caught by the statutory definition has significant consequences, since the individuals concerned become subject to a host of statutory provisions, including the directors' duties in the Companies Act and the disqualification provisions of the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986.