VentureFounders bolsters team with two appointments

Following its continued success, VentureFounders, the UK-based equity investment platform for sophisticated investors, has made two new appointments to support its future expansion plans. Over the last 12 months, VentureFounders’ user base has grown by 105% and in Q1 2016, the platform saw over £726,000 invested via the platform.

Vanessa Cowling joins in the newly created role of General Counsel to run the company’s legal and compliance functions. Vanessa previously worked in Canada Life’s legal team, advising their investment, retirement and group risk insurance businesses. Vanessa will provide guidance to the board of directors and investment team on legal, compliance and governance matters. She will also be responsible for engaging with regulators and developing VentureFounders thought leadership position across industry wide issues.

Basile Dandine is appointed to the role of Investment Associate. Prior to joining VentureFounders, Basile advised early-stage start-ups on business strategy and fundraising needs. Basile started his career in private equity, working for Dubai International Capital where he focused on growth capital transactions in the Middle East, as well as secondary buyouts in London. Basile will be responsible sourcing investment opportunities and executing the fundraises.

Vanessa Cowling, General Counsel, said:
“Venture Founders is a dynamic business that is transforming the way investors access venture capital, as well as supporting the next generation of British entrepreneurs. I firmly believe that the Company’s model– sourcing carefully selected opportunities which have been subject to extensive due diligence–not only prudently manages risk but is also best practice amongst crowdfunders. I am very much looking forward to working with the team to bring these higher standards to a wider audience of investors.”

Basile Dandine, Investment Associate, said:
“Selecting the right opportunities is the foundation of generating strong investment returns in early stage companies. I have been impressed by VentureFounders’ vision to bring this concept to the crowdfunding sector, and giving investors access to high quality investments that have been extensively screened and vetted.”

James Codling, Co-Founder of VentureFounders, added:
“Vanessa and Basile are important and powerful appointments that reflect our continuing success and expansion plans.

“This reflects our commitment to ensuring that exceptional due diligence and professional standards are at the heart of everything we do.”