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
