CIC appoints new chair and NED

Cambridge Innovation Capital (CIC), the venture capital firm investing in the UK’s most promising deep tech and life sciences companies, has appointed Sir Nigel Wilson as its new chair. 

He will succeed Edward Benthall on September 25, following Edward’s 12-year tenure during which he played a pivotal role in establishing CIC and guiding its growth.

Nigel, former chief executive of FTSE 100 pensions giant Legal & General Group and current chairman of Canary Wharf Group, brings extensive leadership experience to CIC at a time of significant opportunity for UK technology and life sciences.

He said: “It’s an exciting time to be joining CIC.

“With strong sector expertise and a central position in Cambridge, one of the world’s most powerful science and technology ecosystems, CIC has built an excellent reputation and a proven track record of investing in leading technology companies. 

“Cambridge is home to world-leading scientists, with notable companies such as Apple, Arm, AstraZeneca, Microsoft, and Siemens located here.

“The “Arc project” and Innovate Cambridge will deliver substantial economic growth to the region, further creating opportunities for CIC. 

“I look forward to working with the team and its wider network of investors, co-investors, strategic partners and entrepreneurs, to support the next generation of globally impactful businesses emerging from Cambridge and beyond.”

Alongside Edward, CIC has also appointed Panos Kakoullis, former chief financial officer of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc, as a non-executive director and chair of the audit committee.

Panos, who previously led Deloitte’s global audit and assurance business, brings decades of financial expertise to the board.

CIC currently manages £600 million in assets and has invested in over 40 companies, including CMR Surgical, Pragmatic Semiconductor and Riverlane. 

The firm works closely with the University of Cambridge, providing privileged access to emerging high-potential technologies.

Andrew Williamson, managing partner at CIC, added: “Sir Nigel has demonstrated his vision and leadership over many years at the top of some of Britain’s most successful companies. 

“With a globally recognised background in the financial sector, as well as working with successive governments in advisory and leadership roles, he will guide CIC during an exciting time for British technology and life sciences companies. 

“With Nigel becoming chair, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Edward Benthall for his tremendous efforts in first establishing and then chairing the firm over the last 12 years. 

“CIC would not exist nor be where it is today without him.”  

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