The Venture Capital Trust Association (VCTA), the trade body for the UK Venture Capital Trust industry, has appointed Will Fraser-Allen as Chair.
Will brings over 20 years of venture capital experience to the role, with a strong track-record in supporting the UK’s rich ecosystem of early-stage businesses spanning the healthcare, leisure, and technology sectors. He is Managing Partner of the leading independent investment manager and VCTA member Albion Capital Group.
Will, who also sits on the Venture Capital Committee of the British Venture Capital Association (BVCA), has been Vice Chair and Chair of the Public Policy Committee at the VCTA for the last year. During his tenure, he has played a pivotal role in the association’s engagement with both media and government, with a focus on supporting entrepreneurs nationwide by removing or extending the VCT Sunset Clause in April 2025, which would see the scheme expire.
“I am honoured to be representing the VCT industry as Chair of the Association, taking over from David Hall who has done a fantastic job representing our members”, said Fraser-Allen. “The VCT scheme has been instrumental to the development of the vibrant UK start-up economy, with an excellent track record in creating well-paid jobs in innovative, fast-growing industries across the UK, supporting the Government’s desire to level up regional economies outside of London and the South East.
“VCTs currently support over 1,000 of the most ambitious young UK businesses, with VCTA members’ portfolio companies employing more than 70,000 people. Equity capital has been crucial in enabling these businesses to grow, and it will continue to be essential as the economy faces an uncertain future with the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis and rising inflation. I am delighted to be able to advocate for the VCT industry and importantly, the interests of the entrepreneurs it backs.”
David Hall, Outgoing Chair of the VCTA and Managing Director of YFM Equity Partners, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Will as Chair, at what is a key moment for our members. He has a wealth of experience in supporting high-growth businesses and shining a spotlight on the fantastic work of the VCT industry. I have every confidence that the association will grow from strength to strength under his leadership.”
The VCTA represents 90% of the VCT industry, whose collective funds under management total in excess of £6.6 billion.
