BGF, the UK and Ireland’s most active investor in growing businesses, has appointed Georgie Stratton in a direct origination role as part of its growing Bristol team.

Georgie joins BGF from PwC, where she worked in a business development role for two years having joined from a similar position at Bristol-based law firm Burges Salmon.

Her direct origination role will see her focusing on the sourcing of new investments and bolt-on acquisitions for portfolio companies across Bristol, Reading and Cardiff.

Georgie’s appointment will strengthen the offering of the eight-strong Bristol team, led by Ned Dorbin who has overseen BGF’s activities in the South West since 2018 and was last year named Insider’s Dealmaker of the Year in the region.

She joins BGF together with investor Liam Pursall, who will work with the Reading team on new investment opportunities and supporting the growth plans of BGF’s extensive portfolio across the Thames Valley region.

BGF’s recent investments in Bristol include £6 million in digital agency and Sitecore specialist Kagool, £6 million in Amdaris, the software developer and digital transformation specialist and a follow-on investment into the iconic sports brand Ruroc.

Commenting on her appointment, Georgie said:

“Due to Covid-19, UK businesses are seeking funding and support more than ever before. I’m passionate about helping businesses to thrive and I’m looking forward to working with entrepreneurs to identify opportunities for growth and discuss how BGF can help them realise their ambitions.”

Ned Dorbin, head of BGF’s investment team in Bristol, added:

“Although we recognise that this has been a very challenging time for ambitious companies, we have remained open for business with BGF completing on average an investment per week this year, including three new investments and a very successful exit in the South West region.

“Increasing numbers of business owners are reviewing their funding options, whether that’s in consideration of a potential capital gains tax increase, a refinancing of CBILS loans or identifying new growth opportunities. We are expanding the team to reflect this appetite in the market, and Georgie’s experience in deal sourcing and relationship building with entrepreneurs and advisors will be a real asset to us as we help drive growth in the local economy.”