British Business Bank strengthens equity leadership

The British Business Bank has appointed Charlotte Lawrence as managing director of direct equity, reinforcing its growth investment capability.

Charlotte brings 20 years’ experience across corporate finance and growth equity. She joins from PSG Equity, where she served as managing director, and previously spent more than a decade investing in technology businesses at The Carlyle Group. 

Her earlier career included investment banking at Merrill Lynch, alongside board and advisory roles within the venture capital sector.

In her new position, Charlotte will lead the Bank’s direct and co-investment activity, building on a portfolio established in 2021 that now spans 37 companies.

She said: “The British Business Bank sits at the heart of the UK’s innovation ecosystem, giving us a unique role in the market. 

“With our expanded investment capabilities alongside the launch of the British Growth Partnership, we have an exceptional opportunity to provide the long-term investment our most ambitious companies need. 

“I look forward to working with the team to scale up our backing for the next generation of UK champions.”

Charlotte’s appointment follows reforms to the Bank’s investment strategy, enabling increased support for UK scale-ups as it continues to expand its role in the venture and growth capital market.

Leandros Kalisperas, chief investment officer at British Business Bank, added: “As the Bank takes on a bigger role in providing scale-up capital, strengthening our direct investing capability is a priority. 

“Our direct investments into companies provide all-important growth capital and ensure the UK taxpayer gains exposure to the UK’s fastest growing companies. 

“Charlotte has an exceptional track record of backing high growth companies, and her leadership will be critical as we deploy larger investments to help UK businesses to scale here at home.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →