THE REASON FOR THE SEARCH

Blenheim Chalcot, a leading digital venture builder, required an Investment Associate with a deep understanding of venture-stage operations to:

• Execute and support seed to growth-stage investments, typically majority stakes (30%–80%)

• Independently drive due diligence and IC presentations across varied digital-first businesses

• Support portfolio companies strategically, including operational secondments and budgetary guidance

THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM

Blenheim Chalcot

Blenheim Chalcot operates as both a venture capital and family office-backed investment firm with £1.1bn in AUM. The firm holds majority control in its portfolio and invests from seed to growth stage across the UK and India, with global reach. Investment targets are digital-native companies, particularly in fintech and edtech sectors, with cheque sizes from £50,000 to £60m.

THE PORTFOLIO COMPANY

Across its 20 active portfolio companies, Blenheim Chalcot takes a hands-on approach. Notable engagements for Bertie include:

• Koodoo: Mortgage broker tech spinout, where he conducted deep diligence to support investment from a failed parent company

• English School: Edtech platform

• Tully (formerly Fairways Forward): A free lending and debt advice platform

Additionally, Bertie completed a 5-month operational secondment at Salary Finance, aiding strategy and special projects, which contributed to doubling its valuation and headcount during the period and supported US expansion.

THE SEARCH REQUIREMENTS

• End-to-end investment experience including IC preparation, legal drafting, and execution

• Strong quantitative and modelling skills including valuation, LBO models, and budgeting

• Deep understanding of commercial and financial due diligence within majority investment environments

• Boardroom exposure with understanding of governance, despite no formal seat

• High EQ and cultural maturity to operate in lean, fast-paced portfolio settings

OUR APPROACH

Raw Selection focused on candidates with strong operational exposure and investment execution experience:

• Identified professionals in hybrid VC/PE environments working across seed to growth-stage businesses

• Prioritised individuals experienced in direct execution, not reliant on bankers or traditional sourcing

• Evaluated technical depth, especially in due diligence, modelling, and governance

• Assessed mindset and resilience through cultural and team integration experience

THOUGHTS ON THE CANDIDATE

Bertie brings highly relevant, hands-on experience in both deal execution and portfolio strategy. He has written and presented IC papers, led execution with minimal legal oversight, and supported budgeting and operational transformation initiatives. Notably, he has performed at a high level despite being younger than most of his peers, a testament to his capability and maturity. He seeks to move into a minority investing model, where he can continue to grow and be challenged strategically.

IMPACT & RESULTS

Execution Excellence: Independently wrote IC papers and executed £15m+ investments by age 25
Portfolio Value Creation: Directly contributed to valuation growth at Salary Finance during secondment
Strategic Versatility: Operated across new investments, follow-ons (12+), and carve-out transactions

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

“Bertie brings an exceptional mix of analytical rigour and operational insight. His ability to execute across the full investment lifecycle, while contributing meaningfully at the portfolio level, demonstrates the strength and versatility we needed. A thoughtful and highly capable team player.”

Bertie Highmore, Investment Manager, Blue Wire Capital