James Barbour-Smith is a seasoned Director at Hillcrest Ventures Limited, where he leverages his extensive experience as a Non-Executive Director (NED) and Chair across more than 50 boards in diverse sectors. His unique blend of expertise spans public limited companies (PLCs), private equity, and pre-private...
James Barbour-Smith is a seasoned Director at Hillcrest Ventures Limited, where he leverages his extensive experience as a Non-Executive Director (NED) and Chair across more than 50 boards in diverse sectors. His unique blend of expertise spans public limited companies (PLCs), private equity, and pre-private equity environments, allowing him to navigate complex business landscapes with ease. At Hillcrest Ventures, James is particularly focused on supporting businesses in the technology and education sectors, where he plays a pivotal role in developing strategic plans that drive growth and enhance operational efficiency.
His current projects involve collaborating closely with senior management teams to facilitate exit strategies, ensuring that businesses are well-positioned for successful transitions. James’s proficiency in human capital management, evidenced by his involvement with companies like Sthree and Swift, complements his work in education and training, where he has contributed to organizations such as Busy Bees and 7City. His broad sector experience also extends to the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, having worked with notable brands like Whitworths and Paladone.
James's skill set is robust, encompassing board administration, fundraising, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and financial analysis. His insights into emerging markets and alternative investments, combined with his experience in management buyouts and debt restructuring, empower him to guide organizations through periods of significant change. As a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of change management, James Barbour-Smith continues to make a substantial impact at Hillcrest Ventures, driving value creation and fostering sustainable growth for the businesses he supports.
