British Design Fund is an early-stage investor backing purpose-led British manufacturing and product design businesses, offering (S)EIS-qualifying investments alongside hands-on advisory support. The fund runs a highly selective process, drawing on strong deal flow from the UK's manufacturing and engineering base, and has built a portfolio spanning robotics, medtech, cleantech, and industrial technology.

The Role

BDF is seeking an experienced Non-Executive Director to sit alongside its Board and Investment Committee and provide independent, rigorous challenge as the fund matures. This is a hands-on NED role: you'll work closely with the CEO, Chair, and Fund Manager, not simply attend quarterly meetings.

You will be expected to:

Challenge and sharpen the fundraising strategy — stress-testing how BDF raises capital for the fund itself, and how it positions against a crowded field of UK VCs
Interrogate operational processes — from deal sourcing and due diligence through to post-investment support, ensuring the fund's rigour scales as the portfolio grows
Scrutinise the external investment and co-investment strategy — including how BDF works with grant bodies, follow-on investors, and syndicate partners
Press on exit strategy across the portfolio — helping the team think rigorously about realistic exit routes, timing, and value creation for individual portfolio companies as well as the fund as a whole

Candidate Profile

A strong track record in private equity or venture capital, ideally with direct experience of fund strategy, portfolio construction, and exits
Comfortable providing candid, constructive challenge to an experienced executive team and Investment Committee
Genuine interest in UK manufacturing, design, engineering, or deep tech investment
Available for regular, close engagement with the leadership team not a purely ceremonial board seat

British Design Fund

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