Maven Capital Partners, one of the UK’s leading private equity firms, has bolstered its investment team in Scotland with the addition of three new hires. This move is aimed at enhancing its focus on deal origination and execution across Scotland, especially in line with the recently launched Investment Fund for Scotland (IFS).
Key Hires Strengthening Maven’s Expertise
Victoria McLaren and Craig McGill have joined Maven as Investment Managers, bringing significant expertise to the firm’s operations in Scotland. Their roles will involve spearheading deal sourcing and managing investments, particularly within the IFS Fund, which focuses on driving growth for smaller businesses in the region. Additionally, James Warner has been appointed as Investment Associate to provide vital support to Maven’s expanding deal team.
Victoria McLaren, a qualified corporate lawyer, specialises in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), private equity, venture capital, and early-stage investments. Her extensive experience spans various sectors, including technology, life sciences, and software, and includes involvement in cross-border transactions. This background is expected to add significant value to Maven’s efforts in fostering growth among innovative companies in Scotland.
Craig McGill, a qualified Chartered Accountant, brings expertise in corporate finance across multiple sectors. His experience includes transactions in fields such as Building Products, Haulage & Logistics, Specialist Engineering, Aquaculture, Whisky, and Sport Tech. His financial acumen will be critical in evaluating and executing investment opportunities.
James Warner, also a Chartered Accountant, previously worked at EY, gaining broad experience in external audit, business assurance, valuations, tax compliance, and financial reporting. His skill set will further enhance the capacity of Maven’s investment team to support ambitious Scottish businesses.
Driving Innovation with the Investment Fund for Scotland
Maven’s Scottish team operates across its Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow offices. In 2023, the firm was selected as one of the managers of the £150 million Investment Fund for Scotland, which includes an initial £50 million equity fund aimed at supporting small businesses in the region.
Through IFS Maven Equity Finance, the firm has already backed several pioneering businesses, including Carcinotech, a specialist in 3D-printed micro-tumours; Calcivis, a MedTech company; and Nami Surgical, a spinout from Glasgow University. These investments highlight Maven’s commitment to nurturing innovative enterprises and promoting economic growth across Scotland.
A Commitment to Nurturing Growth
Alan Robertson, a Partner at Maven, expressed his excitement about the recent appointments, noting that last year was a pivotal period for the firm’s operations in Scotland. He commented, “The Investment Fund for Scotland has opened up exciting new opportunities for businesses looking for funding to accelerate their growth. The expansion of our team marks another milestone in Maven’s ability to identify and develop high-potential businesses. We are delighted to welcome Victoria, Craig, and James to the team as we continue to support local companies.”
The overarching goal of the Investment Fund for Scotland is to stimulate sustainable economic growth by backing innovation and fostering opportunities for emerging businesses. The fund aims to provide access to finance for smaller firms that might otherwise struggle to secure investment, thereby helping to break down barriers and drive regional development.
