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Welcome to the third episode of ‘Scaling for Success,’ a special mini-series of the Maven Capital Partners’ podcast ‘Invested,’ hosted by our Investment Manager Rebecca MacDermid. In this series, we interview inspiring female leaders about their journeys in scaling businesses and driving change, sharing the lessons they’ve learned and the strategies that have propelled them to success.

In this episode, Rebecca is joined by Alex Longton, Founding CEO of Tiba Tempeh, a certified B-Corp plant-based food business. A food and drink sector expert, Alex has over 15 years of sales experience in the industry, working in a number of high-profile roles for companies like Plenish, Lindt Chocolate and Heinz. 

She founded the Tiba Tempeh brand after discovering tempeh on a trip to Indonesia, and the business has gone from strength to strength, reporting record sales at the beginning of the year. Maven has also recently backed the business through the British Business Bank’s Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II, investing to help grow Tiba’s market presence across the UK and Europe. 

Alex reflects on the challenges and achievements of building Tiba, sharing practical insights on driving results and navigating the start-up landscape.

Tune in to hear the real nitty gritty of what it takes to grow a successful food business, how it feels starting out on your own and the importance of networks to help your brand develop. 

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

Welcome to the second episode of ‘Scaling for Success,’ a special mini-series of the Maven Capital Partners’ podcast ‘Invested’, hosted by our Investment Manager Rebecca MacDermid. 

In this series, we're interviewing inspiring female leaders who are breaking down barriers in finance and investment. We'll discuss their journeys of scaling businesses and driving change, addressing the challenges women-led enterprises face in securing finance, talking about lessons learnt, and the strategies that have propelled them to success.

In episode two, Rebecca was joined by Helen Bradley, CEO of Future Asset, a programme on a mission to inform and educate girls in Scottish schools about the investment management industry - to help break down barriers, widen the talent pipeline and improve diversity. 

From classrooms to boardrooms, Helen has over 25 years’ experience in the education sector developing innovative policies and managing national youth programmes affecting young people. Now leading Future Asset, she’s focused on enabling young people to realise their potential, achieve fulfilling careers and recognise how they can change the world for the better! 

Tune in to hear how Helen and her team are helping to bridge the gender gap in investment, the importance of taking meaningful steps towards gender diversity and how firms can create more inclusive opportunities. 

A truly inspiring insight into the impact these programmes are making and what the future of the industry could look like with more women entering the field. Not one to miss!

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

Welcome to the first episode of Scaling for Success, a special five-part mini-series hosted by Maven Investment Manager Rebecca MacDermid to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025.

Supporting this year's theme, 'Accelerate Action', this special series interviews inspiring female leaders who are breaking down barriers in finance and investment. We'll discuss their journeys of scaling businesses and driving change, addressing the challenges women-led enterprises face in securing finance, talking about lessons learnt, and the strategies that have propelled them to success. 

In episode one, Rebecca was joined by Dr Fozia Saleem, CEO of specialist Contract Research Organisation, Magnitude Biosciences. Fozia is a vastly experienced operator in the life sciences sector and has enjoyed a number of high-profile roles at GlaxoSmithKline, British American Tobacco, Nicoventures Holdings and Broughton Life Sciences. She also holds a PhD in Molecular Physiology.  

Named in last year’s Northern Power Women’s Future List, Fozia now leads Magnitude Biosciences which is focused on accelerating the development of new drug therapies and other research advances to improve human and environmental health, and fittingly she is also Vice Chair of The Lifted Project Newcastle board, an early-stage investment connector which supports the access to finance for female founders. 

Tune in to hear Fozia’s inspiring journey, her insights on scaling a business in the life sciences sector, and her advice for the next generation of female entrepreneurs. 

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

In the tenth episode of Invested, we bring the spotlight closer to home for a conversation with Bill Nixon, Managing Partner at Maven Capital Partners. With a career built on strategic decision making, strong leadership and resilience, Bill shares his experiences and the lessons he has learned along the way.

Bill’s career spans over four decades in financial services, starting as a junior bank clerk and progressing to senior roles at Clydesdale Bank and Aberdeen Asset Management. In 2009, during the turbulence of the global financial crisis, he made the bold decision to establish Maven by leading a buyout of the private equity division of Aberdeen, launching a specialist, independent private equity business looking to address a key funding gap for smaller UK businesses.

Maven has subsequently established itself as a significant player in the UK private equity market. More than a decade of progress culminated in its £100 million sale in 2021, and the firm is now on course to surpass £1 billion in AuM in 2025. Throughout this journey, Bill has applied a strategic mindset and a willingness to embrace risk, believing that success often rewards those with a strong work ethic who are prepared to act decisively.

In this episode, Bill reflects on the challenges and achievements of building Maven and shaping the firm’s role in the UK private equity landscape. He shares practical insights on what it takes to translate vision into results, including navigating uncertainty, fostering innovation, and maintaining focus on long term business goals.

Don’t miss the chance to hear directly from one of the industry’s most experienced leaders. Tune in now.

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

How does a career in finance lead to pioneering the green energy revolution? In the ninth episode of Invested, Laura sits down with Neil Spann, CEO of Power Roll, to chat through his unexpected and inspiring journey.

Neil, the first in his family to attend university, began his career with EY and quickly rose through the ranks. His drive and talent paved the way for senior roles, including Director of Group Finance and Investor Relations at Eaga PLC and Carillion. However, a series of ‘Sliding Doors’ moments led Neil to Power Roll, where he now champions innovative solar technology that could transform global access to clean energy and support the transition to net zero.

In the latest episode of Invested, Neil reflects on the challenges of leadership, the pivotal decisions that shaped his career and the importance of maintaining balance in the demanding world of business. His refreshing outlook on life, combined with his enthusiasm for driving meaningful change, offers valuable insights for aspiring leaders.

Tune in to hear Neil’s inspiring story, his thoughts on innovation and the lessons he’s learned on his path to success.

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

In the latest episode of Invested, Laura sits down with Neil Morris, Co-Founder and CEO of Kelpi, an innovative company at the forefront of sustainable packaging solutions. Kelpi develops compostable and recyclable packaging made from seaweed, offering a vital alternative to traditional plastics. 

Neil has had a fascinating career to date. As a serial entrepreneur, he has founded and scaled multiple successful ventures across technology, media, and marketing sectors, launching his first startup straight after university. His extensive experience in television includes significant roles at the BBC and UKTV, demonstrating his versatility as a leader and innovator. Neil has also delivered an engaging TED Talk, further showcasing his commitment to inspiring change.

Driven by his passion for environmental sustainability, Neil is part of a dynamic group of entrepreneurs tackling climate change through innovative solutions. His love for cycling through the scenic lanes of Bath exposed him to the pervasive issue of plastic waste, igniting his quest for a more sustainable approach to packaging. What began as a simple curiosity has evolved into a groundbreaking business.

Neil's entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his development of new technologies and his history of successful business exits. His dedication to addressing climate change makes this episode both inspiring and thought-provoking.

Tune in for an engaging conversation that delves into Neil’s journey, his vision for Kelpi, and the future of sustainable packaging. Enjoy the listen!

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

In the seventh episode of the Invested Podcast, Laura sat down with Tom Eggleston, Co-founder and CEO of ProofID, an award winning provider of Identity and Access Management solutions, operating at the forefront of global cyber security and utilised across multiple markets. 

Tom's passion for leveraging technology to solve real-world problems has been pivotal in transforming ProofID into a market leading provider of identity and access solutions. As a regular speaker at industry events in Europe and the US, Tom specialises in balancing technical expertise with practical solutions to the security challenges faced by modern businesses.

Tom's journey into the tech world began unexpectedly in 1998 with a job in IT support at Halifax Bank in Leeds. By 2014, he had co-founded ProofID and found himself in a modest office in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, anxiously awaiting the first customer call and questioning his decision. His path to success, though not straightforward, reflects a common path trodden by many entrepreneurs and it is an experience which has shaped Tom and helped transition ProofID into the highly successful business it is today.

In this episode, Tom reminisces about the early days of ProofID, sharing experiences that will resonate with many innovators and business owners. His story of perseverance and tenacity offers valuable insights into his entrepreneurial mind and ProofID’s journey from tech startup to a thriving business operating in more than 160 countries. 

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

In the sixth episode of the Invested Podcast, we interview Federico Charosky, the founding CEO of Quorum Cyber, an award-winning cyber security business which has developed advanced solutions to protect organisations against security attacks and breaches.

Federico's journey into the world of computing began in his early teens, fuelled by his passion for gaming, sci-fi, and the limitless possibilities of technology. His love for computers and coding isn't just a hobby, for him it’s been a real adventure that drives his curiosity and innovation, exploring the cutting edge of tech.

A risk and cyber security expert, Federico’s career was a progression of his hobbies from computer gaming to cyber security. He’s held several senior positions in Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas during an impressive 20-year career. From Buenos Aires to Scotland and many countries in between, Federico’s desire to work in a field where he could genuinely make a difference was how he came to establish Quorum Cyber.

In this episode we really get to tap into the entrepreneurial mindset as he talks through his many fascinating experiences both in study and work and the added value it brought to him as a founder and business leader. A real visionary, his enthusiasm for the cause is infectious and his dream for the company’s future is truly admirable. Listening to his standout moments, both in his career and life, really reinforces what it takes to live and breathe a business to truly make it a success.

“People connect with your vision, with your service. They experience something different, and you can see the impact your work has on others. It’s incredibly empowering and drives you to keep going.”

Federico Charosky, Founder and CEO of Quorum Cyber

Tune in now, it’s not one to miss.

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

In the fifth episode of the Invested podcast, we sit down with CEO Virraj Jatania of Pockit, a fintech platform on a mission to revolutionise financial inclusion.

Born into an entrepreneurial family, Virraj’s passion for business was cultivated from a young age. It was his time spent growing up in India, Russia, & the Middle East, and witnessing first hand the challenges many people faced in accessing mainstream banking, which led him to set up Pockit. The company offers a digital account that is designed to assist customers whose needs aren’t met by the traditional banking system with a range of essential financial services.

Virraj’s story is one of ambition, innovation and his drive to create an ethical solution to a global problem. It is a captivating journey, which began as a computer science graduate and has now led him to developing a technology solution which is helping underserved communities. 
 
His insights from both business and life are fascinating. His experience and knowledge highlight the importance of resilience, surrounding yourself with the right people, and having a clear vision when starting a business. This episode is not one to miss.

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

In the fourth episode of the Invested Podcast, we interviewed Tom Dunlop, the founding CEO of Summize, a software specialist transforming contract management for the legal industry. Tom shares his journey from teenage sports star to accomplished commercial and technology lawyer, establishing a revolutionary software business.

From badminton courts to the boardroom, the life skills Tom has developed as a rising athlete have helped him navigate his way as a business leader and CEO of a technology start-up. In this episode, we explore how the determination to succeed in sport was the catalyst for his successes in business.

The inception of Summize stemmed from Tom's firsthand encounters with the complexities of contract management during his tenure as a general counsel. Recognising the inefficiencies in traditional legal processes, Tom envisioned a solution – a Software as a Service business simplifying contract complexities and enhancing accessibility.

Transitioning from badminton champion to startup founder to leading figure in legal tech, Tom's journey is both captivating and inspiring. As a seasoned entrepreneur, he offers valuable insights into team building and business growth, reflecting his unwavering ambition to address challenges within the legal industry.

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

In the third episode of the Invested Podcast, we sit down with Luke Parteger, the founding CEO of iAM Compliant, a revolutionary web-based compliance tool for schools. Luke shares his entertaining journey into the world of entrepreneurship, which began when he was just five years old, and how he went from working in facilities management to creating an innovative software solution that is taking the education sector by storm. His infectious enthusiasm for his product, his industry, and his customers is clear. 

With dreams of providing every school with a free iAM account, Luke is a visionary who wants to make a positive impact in the industry, believing that continual professional development is the key to improving sustainability in schools.

Having worked in facilities management for many years, Luke wanted to simplify the way compliance should be managed. Working with world-class eLearning designers, Luke and his Co-Founder Andy created a simple, intuitive solution specifically designed for schools. iAM’s software helps schools with the everyday management of school health and safety, estates management, statutory reporting, and staff training. Last year they won the prestigious Management & Leadership Solution BETT Award and the Estates Education Supplier of the Year.

In this episode, Luke opens up about the challenges he has faced, the achievements he is proud of, and the future he pictures for his company. We discuss everything from the inception of iAM Compliant to what made him the leader he is today. Join us for an insightful conversation with this ambitious entrepreneur.

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

In the second episode of Invested we caught up with Liz Ashall-Payne, founding CEO of  (ORCHA), a global leader in health app accreditation and distribution.

Liz is now at the forefront of healthcare transformation programs in the NHS, Europe, and North America, but starting from more humble beginnings she set out with an admirable aim to help people. Previously a Speech and Language Therapist for the NHS, she recognised a problem in our healthcare system and identified a solution. Passionate about the cause and determined to drive change, she found a niche and turned it into a business.

A prominent figure in the industry Liz is recognised for her exceptional contributions, she has been honoured as a Tech Trailblazer by the BIMA 100, recognised as a Healthcare IT Leader in the HIMSS Future 50, and named Entrepreneur of the Year by the British Chamber of Commerce, Northern Powerhouse and EY.

An NHS England NIA alumni fellow, she actively contributes to the development of future healthcare leaders as a coach for the NHS England Clinical Entrepreneur program and serves as the Vice Chair on the Tech UK Health and Social Care Council to help shape policies and initiatives in technology and healthcare.

Liz's approach to both business and life is refreshing. Her infectious enthusiasm and passion for the opportunities that technology offers to improve health and drive efficiencies is clear. In this episode we talk about everything from where it all started, and how thinking differently aided her in her journey to her approach to problem solving, learning and success.

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

Invested interviews business leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators who are at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies.
 
 Not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur so we explore what motivates and drives them, and how they have got to where they are today. We will hear their inspirational stories in honest accounts of their struggles and successes when growing their business.
 
 In our pilot episode we caught up with Andrew Avanessian, CEO of technology solution, AppLearn, a digital adoption platform that enhances productivity to help businesses improve data quality in their systems and applications. 
 
 With a keen interest in technology and innovation from a young age, Andrew began his career in technology as a Technical Support Consultant.  He made a name for himself at security software business Avecto (now BeyondTrust), where he was one of the business’s first employees, and played a fundamental role in its success and eventual buy-out for just under £200m in 2018. 
 
 Andrew joined AppLearn in 2019 and spearheaded the company's transition, from a services business into a product-led SaaS business, overseeing growth of 108%. 
 
 An experienced C-suite executive within the software industry and recognized for his contributions by several industry bodies, Andrew regularly speaks at industry events and on news channels including the BBC, Sky, Fox and CNBC. He is a published author, a Forbes Tech Council member and has a BCS Fellowship along with industry qualifications from Microsoft, Apple and ITIL.
 
 Andrew's drive and passion are clear and the time and dedication it takes to really drive a business forward is inspiring. In this episode we talk about everything from how he starts his day to how he motivates himself and his mindset in business, his enthusiasm for technology, his commitment to achieving his goals and how he balances his time between family and work life. 

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

Welcome to our new podcast, Invested, by Maven Capital Partners, where we interview CEOs and founders from our portfolio companies to share their experiences in honest accounts of struggle and success when growing their business.

Guests will provide real insight into the advantages and encounters of working with a private equity investor and the importance of that relationship when partnering with an external funder to achieve growth. 

Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.