Investor login1. What’s a typical day like for you at Oxford Capital?
That is a tricky question because no day is typical! My day consists of discussions with financial advisers on the various uses of EIS, the technicalities and particular cases where EIS is being considered. We are a really close team at Oxford Capital so I also spend time meeting with colleagues on everything from portfolio updates to current deployments.
2. Can you tell us a bit more about your role and your background prior to joining Oxford Capital?
I am responsible for building and maintaining relationships with financial advisers. I’ve worked in financial services for over 25 years and before joining Oxford Capital, I was in a similar role at Blackfinch Investments and prior to that at Canada Life also as a business development manager.
3. How do you support advisers and their clients in understanding the benefits of EIS investing as part of a diversified portfolio?
EIS are high risk investments with a number of nuances and intricacies not found in the main market. For example, dealing in the main market normally takes days, where as full deployment with EIS can take over a year. The liquidity of the investments is also a common misconception. Some advisers are well practiced in this area but others need some assistance to build a strategy to utilise the various tax reliefs available, so it depends on who and what support the adviser needs.
4. Which of our portfolio companies is your favourite and why?
I really like so many of the companies in our portfolio, but I particularly like OBT (Oxford Biotherapeutics is a bit of a mouthful!). Their work on finding more effective drugs to be able to treat cancer at cellular level is really fascinating and funding in this area is key to drive solutions.
5. What most interests you about working with early-stage companies and the processes behind this?
Being involved at an early stage you get to hear the stories behind the ideas. I really admire the ambition and enthusiasm founders have for moving their idea and their company forward. And for advisers and their clients the potential to be involved in some exciting growth companies.
Quickfire round
1. Favourite pastime/hobby – watching my son play football in all weathers!
2. Favourite holiday destination – South Africa
3. Favourite meal – I haven’t really got a favourite meal – but I’m seriously addicted to olives!
4. Favourite film/TV show – Bridgerton
