As my entrepreneurial journey has evolved, I have become an active investor in several start-ups and early stage businesses. How cool is that, please? It’s like my very own Dragons’ Den… although I’m more of a cuddly panda then a dragon!
My role with these companies is very different to the part I play on the brands where I spend most of my time. In addition to the ‘money bit’, I tend to advise CEOs and founders in a pretty hands-off kind of way in situations where my experience, skills and contacts can add value. Acting like a sounding board, I try my best to listen, reflect and guide where I can. After years of hands-on operationally to get stuff done, this is not as easy as it sounds, but it is rewarding when I can help in some way.
There is no strict criteria for what I choose to invest in other than I have to fundamentally be able to see how the product or service solves a meaningful problem for the audience it exists to serve. Naturally, I gravitate towards opportunities that excite me or that I have an interest in already. Growth markets, scale-up potential and a proven business model/existing revenue all help… but I also need to connect with, and like the team behind the proposition.
Fyxer AI will get you back one hour, every day. Begin your day with emails neatly organized, replies crafted to match your tone and crisp notes from every meeting.
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Perkier Ltd
A growing healthy snacking company led by an innovative entrepreneurial team, with extensive FMCG experience, Perkier Ltd is über sustainable certified B Corp and Carbon Neutral, a significant differentiator against their competitor set.
Perkier
Fruit & nut-based snack brand, with popular flavours and powerful functional benefits.
Zombie
Fruit snacks with no added sugar, delivering 1 of your 5-a-day. Designed to fill the white space between kids and adult fruit snacking, through fruit bars and the world’s first gummy made of fruit!
Days is an award winning 0.0% beer business brewed for those who love great beer and living a healthier lifestyle. Founded in the height of lockdown, Days is now the UK’s fastest growing alcohol free beer brand. Here’s to good times, good Days and good tomorrows.
Hip Pop delivers a naturally refreshing, gut-friendly alternative that tastes as good as it makes you feel. Hip Pop is for the doers, the makers, the ones who don’t settle for fake; whether you’re on a gut health mission, dodging artificial nasties, or just after a drink that actually delivers on taste.
Fabric is the go-to learning and development platform for global businesses looking to elevate their marketing teams. We empower marketers with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to drive growth, stay ahead of industry shifts, and thrive in their careers—helping businesses attract, develop, and retain top talent.
Before you pitch me…
Please read my book and get a feel for who I am and what kinds of things are important to me.
Know your audience and you’ll have a much better shot of getting my attention!
THE FLOUNDERING FOUNDER
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