Reading: BGF expands Thames Valley team with new appointment

BGF has expanded its Reading team with the appointment of Guy Pope as an investor. Pope joins BGF from BCMS Corporate, where he specialised in all aspects of mid-market transactions for various sectors including engineering, retail pharmacy and exhibitions.

Pope’s role at BGF will see him working across the investment process, from nurturing relationships with entrepreneurs and businesses within the region to supporting the growing number of existing portfolio companies and those progressing through the investment process.

Commenting on his appointment, Pope said: “I am thrilled to be part of such a well-respected team at BGF here in Reading, which has seen a considerable pace of investment activity into high-quality, diverse businesses across the region. The South of England is a burgeoning space for business growth and I’m looking forward to working with the ambitious entrepreneurs as we welcome more exciting companies into the portfolio.”

BGF’s most recent investments in the South of England include £9.3m to Appnovation, the global digital consultancy which is headquartered in Vancouver and Reading and £6.25m to the Maidenhead-based premium British watch brand, Christopher Ward.

James Austin, head of BGF’s Reading team, added: “We are pleased to have Guy joining the BGF team covering the South. His transaction experience and excellent track record will be welcome as we expand our capabilities in the region and provide funding and support to more ambitious businesses based here.”