Octopus Buzz - 2009

Octopus appoints Investor Director
13 May

Octopus Ventures is delighted to announce the appointment of Jo Oliver as Investor Director with immediate effect.

Jo, 40, will oversee management and growth of the Octopus Investor Group, Octopus Ventures' network of over 100 'independent investors' who provide insight and support during Octopus Ventures' investment process, and add value post investment by providing both knowledge and industry contacts.

Jo will also be involved in the identification of attractive investment opportunities with strong growth potential and work closely with the rest of the team on portfolio management in order to ensure investor returns are maximised. He will report directly to Alex Macpherson, Chief Executive of Octopus Ventures.

Jo has extensive experience as a successful entrepreneur in his own right. In August 2005, he founded Oliver Woodworth Ltd, an award-winning contemporary design and property development company where he oversaw all aspects of the business, including design, financing and marketing. The company's Cedar House high-end residential development, located in South West London, won a special commendation at the prestigious ‘Evening Standard New Homes Awards' in 2008 and has also been featured on the Channel 4 show ‘Grand Designs'.

Commenting on today's announcement, Alex Macpherson, Chief Executive, Octopus Ventures, said: "We are delighted to be welcoming Jo to Octopus Ventures. His impressive blend of financial expertise and track record as a successful entrepreneur make him the perfect fit for our interactive approach to investment and will no doubt be extremely valuable to the companies in which we invest."